A nurse is planning care for a child who has suspected epiglottitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Obtaining a throat culture is contraindicated in suspected epiglottitis because it can cause laryngospasm and complete airway obstruction. B. Placing the child in an upright position (such as the tripod position) helps to maximize airway patency and ease respiratory distress. This is a safe and supportive measure while preparing for definitive care. C. While a lateral neck x-ray may be helpful in diagnosis, transporting the child can worsen distress, and airway stabilization takes priority before any diagnostic procedures. D. Never attempt to visualize the epiglottis with a tongue depressor in suspected cases—this can trigger airway obstruction and is only done in a controlled setting like the OR with emergency airway support available.