Epiglottitis

Question 1

What is the epiglottitis and what does it do?

Answer 1

It is a lap of skin at the base of the tongue. It opens and closes during breathing

Question 2

What is the cause of epiglottitis?

Answer 2

Haemophilus influenza

Question 3

Is this a virus or bacteria?

Answer 3

Bacteria

Question 4

What is the unusual age of children who get epiglottitis?

Answer 4

2-5 years old

Question 5

What are the signs of epiglottitis?

Answer 5

3 D’s (Drooling, Dysphagia, Dysphonia [ no voice])

Question 6

What will the child look like during an episode of epidlottitis?

Answer 6

Sitting upright; tongue protruding; Drooling: shallow, rapid breathing

Question 7

Can epiglottits be treated at home?

Answer 7

No, the child must go to the hospital immediately

Question 8

When assessing the airway can you use a tongue depressor or tongue blade?

Answer 8

NO, NEVER put anything in the mouth to assess!

Question 9

If the child cannot breathe, what might be done?

Answer 9

Intubation

Question 10

What medication will be given to treat epiglottits?

Answer 10

Antibiotic therapy

Question 11

How can epiglottitis be avoided?

Answer 11

By getting the H. influenza vaccine