The doctor ordered a lateral neck x-ray to r/o epiglottitis. the most important nursing action is:

The most important nursing action is to request portable X-ray film be taken in the emergency department.  

Epiglottitis is inflammation of the epiglottis. One of the way for detection of epiglostis is using the X-ray. X-rays of the neck from the side may show a "thumbprint sign" which is the sign that the epiglottitis is present.

when you breathe in, or inhale, your diaphragm contracts (tightens) and moves downward. this increases the space in your chest cavity, into which your lungs expand. the intercostal muscles between your ribs also enlarge the chest cavity. they contract to pull your rib cage both upward and outward when you inhale.