Question

A 3-year-old boy is brought to the Emergency Department with sudden onset stridor, drooling, high fever (39.5°C), and severe respiratory distress. He is sitting forward in a 'tripod' position and appears toxic. He is incompletely immunised. What is the most critical immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Arrange urgent senior airway management support (Anaesthetics/ENT)

Answer

Administer oral dexamethasone

Answer

Perform a throat examination with a tongue depressor

Answer

Administer high-flow oxygen and nebulised adrenaline

Answer

Obtain a lateral neck X-ray

Practice question

A 3-year-old boy is brought to the Emergency Department with sudden onset stridor, drooling, high fever (39.5°C), and severe respiratory distress. He is sitting forward in a 'tripod' position and appears toxic. He is incompletely immunised. What is the most critical immediate action?