The nurse is caring for a 6-month-old infant diagnosed with RSV,a viral infection causing copious airway secretions.What consideration will influence the nurse's plan of care most?

A) Infants breathe more rapidly than adults.
B) Infants' airways are narrower and more easily obstructed.
C) Infants have lower hemoglobin levels reducing oxygenation.
D) Infants have larger tonsils and adenoids.

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Nicole McAdams · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : B , Explanation :  Although infants do breathe more rapidly than adults,this consideration will not influence the plan of care for this patient.The narrower airways mean that the copious secretions caused by the infection could result in airway obstruction,so the plan of care must include mobilizing secretions to maintain a clear airway to allow for adequate oxygenation.Infants' hemoglobin levels are not lower than those of adults,so this is an untrue statement.Toddlers,not infants,have enlarged tonsils and adenoids.

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