Which of the following findings should the nurse expect when assessing a child with epiglottitis? Select all that apply.

Epiglottitis is a life-threatening bacterial inflammation of the supraglottic structures. Knowledge of anatomical airway obstruction signs is essential to differentiate this medical emergency from viral croup, focusing on symptoms related to severe swelling, dysphagia, and imminent respiratory failure in children. Choice A rationale Epiglottitis typically presents with a sudden onset of a high fever, often exceeding 39 degrees Celsius or 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit. A low-grade fever is more characteristic of viral infections like spasmodic croup or mild laryngotracheobronchitis. Choice B rationale Drooling occurs because the inflamed epiglottis causes severe pain and physical obstruction during attempts to swallow saliva. This is a classic sign of supraglottic swelling and indicates the patient cannot manage their own secretions effectively. Choice C rationale Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, results from the extreme edema of the epiglottis. The pain associated with the throat makes the child refuse to eat or drink, contributing to the drooling and the characteristic tripod positioning. Choice D rationale Inspiratory stridor is a high-pitched sound indicating significant narrowing of the upper airway. As the epiglottis swells, the laryngeal opening becomes restricted, creating turbulent airflow that is audible without a stethoscope during inhalation. Choice E rationale A dry, barking cough is the hallmark sign of croup, which involves the subglottic area. In epiglottitis, the cough is typically absent because the child is trying to protect their narrowed airway from further irritation. Choice F rationale The voice becomes muffled or thick, often described as a hot potato voice, because the vocal cords are obstructed by the swollen tissue above them. The child usually avoids speaking to conserve their tenuous and narrow airway.