Epiglottitis NCLEX Mastery Guide
Epiglottitis
What is epiglottitis? It is the inflammation of the epiglottis. This can lead to an upper airway obstruction.
Anatomy & Physiology of Epiglottis

Anatomy
Location: The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue, at the entrance of the larynx (voice box). It is situated above the glottis, which is the opening between the vocal cords.
Structure:
- Cartilage: The epiglottis is composed primarily of elastic cartilage, which provides flexibility and strength.
- Covering: It is covered by a mucous membrane that helps protect the underlying cartilage and aids in the movement of the epiglottis.
Physiology
Function: The primary function of the epiglottis is to act as a switch between the trachea and the esophagus to ensure that food and liquids are directed into the esophagus and air is directed into the trachea.
Swallowing Mechanism:
- Resting Position: When not swallowing, the epiglottis stands upright, allowing air to pass freely into the trachea.
- During Swallowing: As you swallow, the larynx elevates, and the epiglottis folds backward to cover the glottis. This action prevents food and liquids from entering the trachea and directs them into the esophagus.
Protection of the Airway: By closing off the trachea during swallowing, the epiglottis protects the airway from aspiration of food and liquids, which could lead to choking or respiratory infections.
Causes of Epiglottitis
“EPI-GLOTTIS”
E | E. coli and other bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus) |
P | Pneumococcus (Streptococcus pneumoniae) |
I | Injury (direct trauma, chemical burns, thermal burns) |
G | Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) |
L | Laryngitis-related viruses (e.g., varicella-zoster, herpes simplex) |
O | Other bacteria (Haemophilus influenzae type B – Hib) |
T | Thermal injury (inhaling hot steam or smoke) |
T | Trauma (direct throat injury) |
I | Immune system issues (immunosuppression, diabetes) |
S | Smoking and substance abuse (chronic irritation, drug inhalation) |
Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib)
Prevention:
Via the Hib vaccine
When is the Hib vaccine administered?
It is part of the pediatric vaccination schedule and is given in 3-4 doses (depending on the brand used):
– At 2 months
– At 4 months
– At 6 months (if needed)
– At 12-15 months
Other Causes:
Epiglottitis can also be caused by other bacteria such as:
– Streptococcus pneumoniae
– Staphylococcus aureus
– Streptococcus pyogenes
Signs and Symptoms of Epiglottitis
“SORE THROAT”
S | Sore throat (severe, sudden onset) |
O | Obstruction of airway (leading to Stridor) |
R | Rapid breathing (difficulty breathing) |
E | Elevated temperature (fever) |
T | Tripod position (to ease breathing) |
H | Hoarse voice or muffled voice |
R | Restlessness and anxiety (due to breathing difficulty) |
O | Oxygen desaturation (cyanosis) |
A | Ability to swallow decreased (dysphagia, drooling) |
T | Tachycardia (increased heart rate) |
Nursing Interventions
“AIRWAY CARE”
A | Airway management |
I | Intubation preparation |
R | Respiratory status monitoring |
W | Watch vital signs – Monitor Temperature |
A | Administer oxygen and medications |
Y | Yield throat examinations (avoid unless necessary) Don’t use a tongue blade, oral thermometer, obtain a throat culture – This could cause a spasm, which will completely block the airway. |
C | Corticosteroids and antibiotics |
A | Assess hydration status (IV fluids) |
R | Reduce anxiety |
E | Educate patient and family |
Child Care with Epiglottitis
“CALM CARE”
C | Cry prevention: Prevent doing things that make the child cry. |
A | Avoid supine position: Allow the child to be in a comfortable position that allows them to breathe (no supine position). |
L | Lap of parent: Keep the child with a parent and on their lap during treatments, if possible. |
M | Maintain calm environment: Provide a calm environment. |
C | Continuous supervision: Never leave the child alone. |
A | Avoid restraints: Don’t restrain the child. |
R | Restrict oral intake: Keep the child nothing by mouth. |
E | Ease anxiety: Keep the child calm to prevent airway obstruction. |
Epiglottitis NCLEX Mastery Guide
Discover more from Complete Nursing Solution
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Good write-up, I’m regular visitor of one’s blog, maintain up the excellent operate, and It is going to be a regular visitor for a lengthy time.
Hi there! Quick question that’s totally off topic. Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly? My website looks weird when browsing from my iphone4. I’m trying to find a theme or plugin that might be able to correct this issue. If you have any recommendations, please share. Cheers!
hello!,I like your writing very much! proportion we be in contact more approximately your post on AOL? I need a specialist in this house to resolve my problem. May be that is you! Having a look forward to see you.
incrível este conteúdo. Gostei muito. Aproveitem e vejam este conteúdo. informações, novidades e muito mais. Não deixem de acessar para saber mais. Obrigado a todos e até mais.
Nonetheless, the most effective thing about shopping for your gear from this company is
that you’ll get all of the assist you to want with the
product you’re looking to purchase. Most importantly, they will always respond on time and deliver your
product within the shortest time attainable. That is without mentioning the care
that accompanies the packaging. It is considered to be essentially the most protected steroid, which is why it
stays within the listing of each bodybuilder and sports activities sporting exercise.
It doesn’t intrude with the all-natural manufacturing of
testosterone levels. Anavar boosts wholesome protein synthesis in the body, improves bone
thickness, as well as promotes the event of muscle mass.
When dealt with with an empty stomach, you possibly can obtain most outcomes.
There is a lot of debate surrounding the utilization of anabolic
steroids. Some people believe that they are protected for men and women, whereas others think that they are
solely safe for males. The fact is that anabolic steroids can be safe for both men and women,
however there are some issues that you just want to remember before using
them. In addition, when anabolic steroids are taken, catabolic processes are
decreased, and recuperation after exercise is improved.
Their use can considerably influence your capacity to construct muscle and
control physique fats when mixed with rigorous coaching and a disciplined food regimen. Nonetheless,
it’s essential to concentrate to potential unwanted effects, similar to cardiovascular issues,
liver toxicity, hormonal imbalances, and psychological effects like aggression and
mood swings. Due to those risks, it is important to use Trenbolone Acetate
cautiously and ideally beneath medical supervision. With delivery out there throughout the USA, we’ll guarantee your package deal arrive promptly at your doorstep,
every time. Gyms could offer in-house supplements with expert advice,
while Walmart, Costco, and drug shops also present a selection of options.
One such reputable platform is CrazyBulk,
a broadly known vendor of 100 percent pure supplements.
This may be achieved by checking the brand’s popularity and conducting correct analysis on the product’s
ingredients and benefits. One Other key factor to suppose about is making certain the authorized steroid has undergone thorough testing for security.
Dependable producers will sometimes comply
with stringent security measures and sometimes have their merchandise tested by accredited third-party laboratories.
This helps to ensure that the merchandise are secure to use and devoid
of dangerous substances. At All Times analysis the model and its popularity, as
nicely as verify the certifications and licenses they possess to ensure
you’re purchasing a safe and dependable product. The distinctive formulation of
Anadrole works by lowering recovery time and promoting muscle-building.
With a serving measurement of 4 capsules a day, expect to
experience impressive ends in their energy coaching
and general physical performance.
On the varied other hand, when you have a better testosterone
diploma, every little thing is circled. Testosterone comes a long
way in building muscle mass in addition to burn energy.
This naturally occurring substance plays an essential
obligation in enhancing sex drive, increase temper, quality of life,
and increase assuming capacities. No particular person is conscious of exactly how
their body would certainly react to this steroid which
is why it’s suggested to boost your dosage slowly. Regardless, it is not advised to abuse the dosage since this or any steroid
can take a toll in your wellness. As soon as you are finished along with your cycle,
see to it you’re taking PCT to revive the common hormone degree.
Initially, like all steroids, Deca-Durabolin was moreover created for medical objectives.
We’re excited that will help you get stronger, push more durable, and crush your goals together.
It is really helpful to purchase authorized steroids from official web sites to make sure the authenticity of
the product and access particular presents and money-back guarantees.
Incorporating a healthy diet ensures that your body has the required nutrients,
vitamins, and minerals to help muscle development and enhance your overall well-being.
A well-balanced nutrition plan contains a mixture of lean proteins,
healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to gasoline your physique and boost your power
levels. If you’re seeking to buy authorized steroid alternatives, the web market provides quite so much of retailers to choose from.
However, it’s essential to ensure the provider presents genuine merchandise which
might be protected and effective.
Our online store ukgear.retailer provides very high quality steroids, where you ought
to purchase the most common merchandise from the world of bodybuilding,
together with all injection and tablets on provide.
Usually, a solo cycle is beneficial for people who are new to utilizing steroids.
Once the person has turn out to be more familiar with using steroids, they will combine multiple
AAS compound in every cycle. It is recommended that new customers do not exceed the beginner-level
doses set. As Soon As any steroid cycle is completed, a Post Cycle Remedy (PCT) therapy must be accomplished to permit the physique to recharge
and recuperate.
There are different classes of steroids that could be found in stores, or online.
There are injectable steroids, oral steroids, PCT (Post Cycle Therapy) steroids,
and non-steroid alternate options. The most typical
for efficiency enhancers are the injectable and oral steroids.
Spectrum Pharma is recognized for its progressive approach to anabolic steroid production.
They present pharmaceutical-grade merchandise that bear quality control at every
step. Whether you are on the lookout for testosterone boosters or fat-burning steroids, Spectrum Pharma has a wonderful choice to choose from.
Buying steroids and dietary supplements online has turn into more and more
in style as a result of convenience, variety, and entry
to high-quality merchandise that might be harder to obtain locally.
Most users start with oral varieties after which progress to injectable varieties.
Yourmuscleshop.com has legit lab-tested products however high quality isn’t
guaranteed. They also have 24/7 customer service and free advice with any purchase.
They have had over 3500 clients and 5800 deliveries worldwide
over the previous few years, so they declare but we might
NOT confirm this. Their staple model is GenLabs and it ships from the USA from a warehouse.
They are clearly lying about delivers and prospects
as they’ve been in business for under 6 months, very a lot appears
like a bait and change fraud.
Order prime quality AAS with us; we are going to ship your order
package deal to your tackle ASAP. You have to know What Is An Anabolic
Steroid (Hegyvideksport.Hu) you may be
doing and take the correct details about anabolic steroids merchandise when it comes to well being.
We additionally provide completely different safety and PCT supplements that help you to avoid numerous unwanted effects of anabolic steroids.
One Other star product, Ultima-Cyp ($60 – $90), is
a premium choice for these aiming for significant muscle positive aspects
of their training routine.