Q. A 3-year-old girl was brought to the emergency department by her parents. They are concerned that her breathing is louder than normal. Her parents are also concerned that the patient seems to be short of breath. She developed a runny nose and high-grade fever a day ago. The mother has also noticed a bluish discoloration around her lips. The patient is up to date with her immunizations, but her parents note that their family members do not believe in vaccines and have not vaccinated the patient’s cousins.
On examination, the patient’s temperature is 104°F, respiratory rate 48/min, and SaO2 is 86 % on room air. Physical examination shows the patient sitting up, leaning forward, and drooling. Chest examination is positive for inspiratory stridor and suprasternal retraction.
What would be the next step in managing this patient?