A nurse is caring for a preschool-age child who has epiglottitis with a barking cough. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Rationale: A. Using a tongue depressor is contraindicated in epiglottitis because it can trigger complete airway obstruction. B. Airborne precautions are not required; epiglottitis is a bacterial infection (commonly Haemophilus influenzae type B), so standard and droplet precautions are appropriate. C. Monitoring oxygen saturation is correct because airway obstruction and hypoxia are the greatest risks; continuous assessment ensures early detection of respiratory compromise. D. Obtaining a throat culture is unsafe in epiglottitis since manipulating the throat can precipitate airway obstruction.