Question

The mother of 4-year-old Kerry Washington asks why the nurse is concerned about the client's breathing after she was stung by a bee. Which response by the nurse is the most appropriate?

1) Bee stings can cause a release of inflammatory substances that can lead to airway obstruction.
2) The larynx is in the posterior position in children which can become swollen after a bee sting.
3) The longer and wider trachea in children can cause excess mucous to accumulate after a bee sting.
4) Children have a longer epiglottis which can become easily obstructed after a bee sting.

Answer 1

The nurse's best response is that bee stings can prompt the release of inflammatory substances which may cause airway obstruction, a serious concern for young children due to the potential for a rapid and strong immune response leading to severe swelling.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate response by the nurse to explain why there is a concern about the client's breathing after being stung by a bee is: Bee stings can cause a release of inflammatory substances that can lead to airway obstruction. This response is factually accurate, as bee stings can trigger a systemic allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. This reaction can cause the tissues in the throat to swell rapidly, potentially leading to an obstructed airway and difficulty breathing. The concern for aerial obstruction is particularly high in young children due to the potential for a very strong and fast immune response to the allergen, causing significant swelling that can quickly compromise the airway and lead to decreased oxygen transport to the brain, which may be fatal.