Epiglottitis Flashcards
1
Q
Why is epiglottitis an emergency?
A
Because it is rapidly progressive and respiratory arrest can occur abruptly due to airway obstruction.
2
Q
What is this a presentation of?
Little prodrome, short history of fever, irritability, and sore throat, pooling and drooling of saliva, muffled voice or cry, leaning forward cough is absent.
A
Epiglottitis
3
Q
What are the three D’s of epiglottitis?
A
Drooling, dysphagia, distress
4
Q
What is the most common cause of epiglottitis?
A
Haemophilus influenzae
5
Q
What is the general management for epiglottitis?
A
- Keep patient upright
- Do not examine throat or cause distress
- Summon anaesthetists and ENT surgeon
- Diagnosis made at laryngoscopy
- Patient intubated
6
Q
What is the treatment for epiglottitis?
A
Dexamethasone and cefotaxime
