A patient with a suspected peritonsillar abscess has increasing difficulty opening the mouth and drooling. Which nursing action has priority?
Correct answer: C. Assess the airway and notify the provider urgently
- A. Offer solid food to assess swallowing
- B. Place the patient flat and encourage sleep
- C. Assess the airway and notify the provider urgently
- D. Ask the patient to gargle with concentrated antiseptic
Explanation
Drooling and difficulty opening the mouth may signal a deep throat infection with risk of airway obstruction. Airway assessment comes first because breathing takes priority over oral intake and comfort measures.
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About Eye and ENT Nursing
Covers nursing care for cataract, glaucoma, conjunctivitis, retinal disorders, ear infections, hearing loss, vertigo, sinusitis, tonsillitis and laryngeal disease. It includes visual and hearing assessment, eye and ear medication administration, postoperative precautions, airway concerns and the difference between conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
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