An 18-month-old girl is admitted to the hospital with acute laryngotracheobronchitis. She is placed in a mist tent with compressed air. Which of these symptoms would be an early sign of hypoxia?

Explanation

• Laryngotracheobronchitis ("croup") is the inflammation of the larynx, trachea, and major bronchi.

• A child with laryngotracheobronchitis is placed in a mist tent primarily to increase oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange.

• Early signs of hypoxia include restlessness, headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, and cyanosis.

Incorrect options:

• Barking cough is a sign of croup, not a specific sign of hypoxia.

• Flushing of the face and mouth breathing are not signs of hypoxia.

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