Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

For a 3-year-old with croup and moderate respiratory distress, what should be included in the care plan?

1. Encourage bed rest

2. Limit fluids to decrease the risk of pulmonary edema

3. Administer oral decadron

4. If oral antibiotics are not well tolerated, administer IV antibiotics

The correct answer is: Administer oral decadron

In the case of a 3-year-old child diagnosed with croup and experiencing moderate respiratory distress, administering oral decadron is an essential component of the care plan. Decadron, or dexamethasone, is a corticosteroid that effectively reduces inflammation in the airways, which is a primary issue in croup. By alleviating the swelling in the larynx and surrounding tissues, it helps to ease respiratory distress, improve airflow, and ultimately support the child’s recovery. Encouraging bed rest is generally supportive but does not specifically address the underlying issues associated with croup. Limiting fluids is inappropriate because adequate hydration is critical for maintaining overall health and can help alleviate symptoms. Administering intravenous antibiotics may be necessary in cases with bacterial superinfection, but this does not align with the standard treatment for uncomplicated viral croup, which is primarily managed with corticosteroids.