Pediatric Respiratory Assessment Part 1

Pediatric cardiac arrest

Pediatric cardiac arrest represents the terminal event of progressive shock or respiratory failure rather than sudden collapse secondary to arrhythmias.  Because the outcome of cardiac arrest is poor in pediatric patients, it is important for the clinician to recognize early symptoms of respiratory failure and shock and initiate prompt therapy.

Respiratory  Distress

·         Increased work of breathing

·         Tachypnea

·         Hyperpnea

·         Nasal flaring

·         Use of accessory muscles

·         Inspiratory retractions

Respiratory  Distress

·         Symptoms may be compensatory mechanisms that help to maintain gas exchange

·         As the child tires, the clinical symptoms of respiratory failure develop

Respiratory Failure

·         Inadequate oxygenation

·         Inadequate ventilation, or both

·         Criteria for distinguishing between respiratory distress and failure depends upon the child’s baseline respiratory function and premorbid conditions

Source:

Pediatric Advanced Life Support Provider Manual by Leon, M.D. Chameides, Ricardo A., M.D. Samson, Stephen M., M.D. Schexnayder and Mary Fran, RN Hazinski (Oct 12, 2011)