Which vital signs would typically be expected in a child with epiglottitis?

In cases of epiglottitis in children, one would typically observe increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and high-grade fever. This presentation is due to the inflammatory response caused by infection, which often leads to tachycardia as the body tries to compensate for potential airway obstruction and systemic infection.

The elevated heart rate reflects the stress and discomfort the child is experiencing, as well as the body's response to fever. Blood pressure may also be higher as a result of this systemic inflammatory response. High-grade fever is common in infections, indicating that the immune system is actively fighting off the invading pathogens.

In contrast, low blood pressure and bradycardia could indicate a severe systemic infection or shock, which is not typically the case with epiglottitis. Normal heart rates with moderate fever might suggest a less severe illness, while stable vital signs would not be expected in a condition characterized by marked inflammation and potential airway compromise. Thus, the vital signs presenting as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and high-grade fever fit the clinical picture of a child with epiglottitis.