Acute Epiglottitis Flashcards
1
Q
what organism causes acute epiglottitis?
A
haemophilus influenzae type B
2
Q
what vaccine protects again acute epiglottitis?
A
Hib vaccine
3
Q
what are the features of acute epiglottitis?
A
- rapid onset
- high temperature
- stridor
- drooling of saliva
- ‘tripod position’
4
Q
what is the ‘tripod’ position?
A
patient finds it easier to breathe if they are leaning forward and extending their neck in a seated position
5
Q
how is the diagnosis of acute epiglottitis made?
A
direct visualisation
ONLY BE DONE BY SENIOR STAFF WHO ARE ABLE TO INTUBATE IF NECESSARY
6
Q
what is ‘thumb sign’?
A
lateral view x-ray show swelling of the epiglottitis
7
Q
how is acute epiglottitis managed?
A
- immediate senior involvement
- oxygen
- IV antibiotics
