Epiglottitis (Correctly answered)

Which age group gets epiglottitis more? correct answers 2-7 years, but it may occur at any age Initially, what was the commonest cause of acute epiglottitis? correct answers Haemophilus influenzae type B, but the use of immunization has reduced this What are some of the organisms that cause epiglottitis? correct answers Streptococcus pyogenes (grp A), streptococcus pneumoniae, non-typable haemophilus influenzae, staphylococcus What is the most common presentation of epiglottitis in adults? correct answers A sore throat How does epiglottis present? correct answers Child looks toxic and swallowing is difficult. High fever, sore throat, dyspnoea, rapidly progressive respiratory obstruction and tripoding. Drooling is usually present and the neck is hyperextended. The degree of respiratory distress varies. Note that the respiratory distress may be absent initially or it can be the first manifestation. Stridor is a late finding and suggests almost complete airway obstruction. Call for help!!!!!!! What are the 4 Ds of epiglottitis? correct answers Drooling, dysphagia, distress, dysphonia What is the tripod position? correct answers The child sits forward supported by both hands, the neck is extended and the chin is out Why may the neck be hyperextended in a child with epiglottitis? correct answers This is an attempt to maintain the airway How do you diagnose epiglottitis? correct answers Doing a laryngoscopy under controlled circumstances (OT or ICU) - you should see a large cherry red and swollen epiglottitis. Sometimes the aryepiglottic folds are more involved than the epiglottis. CALL FOR HELP!!!! Outline the management of epiglottitis based on stability of the airway correct answers If they are unstable, that is, unreactive, cyanotic and bradycardic, then intubate right away. If they are stable with a high suspicion then take to OT for laryngoscopy and intubate under GA. If they are stable with moderate to low suspicion, obtain a lateral neck X ray When do you do a laryngoscopy if the diagnosis of epiglottitis is certain or probable based on clinical findings? correct answers Immediately, but in a controlled environment. Other procedures like IVA should avoided until the airway is secured, because this aggravates the child leading to more obstruction. CALL FOR HELP!!!!! Do you intubate a patient with probable epiglottitis first? correct answers No, get a lateral neck X ray to confirm