A nurse is planning care for a toddler who has epiglottitis. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?

A) Initiate droplet precautions: This is the correct answer. Epiglottitis can be caused by infections such as Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), which can spread through respiratory droplets. Implementing droplet precautions helps prevent the transmission of the infection to others. B) Carefully suction the child's oropharynx to remove secretions: This intervention is risky in cases of epiglottitis because it may cause further airway obstruction or distress. It is generally avoided unless there is a clear indication that it is safe to do so. C) Offer a high-calorie, high-protein diet: While nutrition is important, the immediate priority in a child with epiglottitis is to ensure airway patency and manage the infection, not dietary considerations. D) Administer pancreatic enzymes with meals: This intervention is not relevant to epiglottitis, as pancreatic enzymes are typically indicated for conditions affecting digestion, such as cystic fibrosis or pancreatic insufficiency, rather than for an upper airway infection.