A client with Streptococcus pharyngitis reports high fever, difficulty swallowing, and a muffled voice. Which complication should the nurse suspect?

Choice A reason: Laryngeal polyps are benign growths on the vocal cords typically associated with chronic vocal strain or irritation, not acute infection like streptococcal pharyngitis. Choice B reason: Nasal polyps are soft, painless growths in the nasal passages due to chronic inflammation, often seen in allergic rhinitis or asthma—not related to pharyngitis or muffled voice. Choice C reason: A peritonsillar abscess is a serious complication of streptococcal pharyngitis. It presents with high fever, severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and a muffled or “hot potato” voice due to swelling and pus accumulation near the tonsils. Choice D reason: Foreign body obstruction typically presents with sudden onset of choking, coughing, or respiratory distress, not progressive symptoms like fever and muffled voice.