NREMT Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Cognitive ExamMedical EmergenciesMedium
A 3-year-old male presents with a sudden onset of high fever (103°F/39.4°C), muffled voice, and is sitting upright, leaning forward with his chin extended. He is drooling excessively. Which of the following is the most appropriate action for the EMT?
- AAdminister humidified oxygen via a non-rebreather mask.
- BAttempt to visualize the epiglottis with a tongue depressor.
- CPlace the child in a position of comfort and transport immediately.
- DEncourage the child to lie down to conserve energy.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Place the child in a position of comfort and transport immediately.
The child's symptoms (high fever, muffled voice, drooling, tripod position with chin extended) are classic for epiglottitis, a life-threatening airway emergency. Any attempt to visualize the airway or disturb the child could trigger complete airway obstruction. The priority is to maintain a position of comfort and transport immediately to a medical facility for definitive airway management.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While oxygen is important, a non-rebreather mask may agitate the child and compromise the airway further. Maintaining comfort is key.
- B. Attempting to visualize the epiglottis is contraindicated as it can cause laryngospasm and complete airway obstruction.
- D. Encouraging the child to lie down would likely worsen their respiratory distress and is contraindicated.
Epiglottitis Management
Emergency management of an inflamed epiglottis, a life-threatening condition causing airway obstruction, characterized by rapid onset, high fever, drooling, and tripod position.
- Do not attempt to visualize airway.
- Maintain position of comfort.
- Minimize agitation.
- Rapid transport to hospital.
Memory trick: Don't Peek, Just Speed