Several hours after admission of a child to the pediatric unit with laryngotracheobronchitis (viral croup), the nurse determines that tachypnea and tachycardia, accompanied by intercostal and substernal retractions and increased restlessness, have developed. what is the priority nursing action

Correct respiratory dysfunction

Explanation:Laryngotracheobronchitis (croup) is a common upper airway infection. It blocks breathing because of the swelling of the larynx and trachea, and one of its primary symptoms is a "barking cough" that may be bad enough to cause gagging or vomiting. Children between 3months and 3 years are the most frequently affected, although it can occur in any age group.

This infection is viral and Parainfluenza is responsible for the majority of cases. Other causes include adenovirus, influenza virus A and B, RSV.

Symptoms first occurrence is usually suddenly at night and it's usually self limited, lasting about 3 - 5 days.

Symptoms may include;

Barking Cough

Fever

Drooling

Difficulty breathing

Hoarseness or Impaired voice

Sore throat

Phlegm

Corticosteroids (usually a single dose) is usually used to decrease inflammation and racemic epinephrine aerosols demonstrate the alpha-adrenergic effect of mucosal vaso-

constriction, helping to decrease edema. In the case of tachypnea, it could be a sign of trachea obstruction, so ineffective breathing pattern is checked for and a nebulizer treatment can be administered as it relaxes smooth muscles in the airway. Except in the case of severe restlessness which most likely arises from securing adequate oxygen and is an early sign of respiratory distress, so in this case, respiratory dysfunction is first corrected.