What is the purpose of administering cool mist to a child with acute laryngotracheobronchitis?

Administering cool mist to a child with acute laryngotracheobronchitis is primarily aimed at facilitating the reduction of mucosal edema. This condition, often characterized by swelling in the larynx, trachea, and bronchi, can lead to significant respiratory distress. The cool mist helps to soothe inflamed tissues, which can alleviate the swelling and improve airway patency. This is particularly important because laryngotracheobronchitis can cause symptoms like cough, stridor, and difficulty breathing, and reducing the swelling is vital to improving the child's comfort and respiratory function.

The other options, while they touch on aspects of care, do not directly address the primary physiological benefit of cool mist therapy. For example, drying mucosal secretions or enhancing fluid absorption is not the intended outcome of using cool mist in managing this respiratory condition. Instead, the focus is on the anti-inflammatory effect of the cool, humidified air, which provides relief by reducing edema and improving airflow.