A parent brings a child to the emergency department and reports fever,foul smell coming from the throat,and a gray covering over the tonsils.What action by the nurse takes priority?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The manifestations are characteristic of diphtheria,which can cause respiratory compromise and airway obstruction.The nurse first assesses the child's respiratory status.Putting the child on a cardiac monitor and oximeter are important interventions,but first the nurse needs to assess the respiratory system.The child will need an IV,but that can be started after the respiratory assessment.

A Parent Brings a Child to the Emergency Department and Reports