Question

A toddler is admitted to the emergency department with a diagnosis of acute spasmodic laryngitis. After the spasms subside, the child is ready to be discharged. What should the nurse teach the parents to do at home to help prevent another croup episode?

1) Perform postural drainage.
2) Discourage before-bedtime snacks.
3) Use a cool mist vaporizer in the child's room.
4) Demonstrate to the child how to expel air after inspiration.

Answer 1

To help prevent another croup episode in a child who has experienced acute spasmodic laryngitis, parents should use a cool mist vaporizer in the child's room and follow other prevention strategies such as avoiding smoke exposure and maintaining good hygiene.

Step-by-step explanation:

The treatment for a child who has been diagnosed with acute spasmodic laryngitis, often referred to as croup, involves measures to prevent future episodes. After a child experiences spasms that subside, it is important for the parents to take steps to reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Although several methods may be suggested, one of the most effective is the use of a cool mist vaporizer in the child's room.

Using a cool mist vaporizer helps to maintain moisture in the air, which can soothe the child's airways and prevent the drying that could lead to another croup episode. Additionally, it is important for the parents to be aware of prevention strategies such as avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke, keeping up to date with vaccinations, and practicing good hand hygiene to reduce the risk of respiratory infections that could trigger croup.