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Pediatric emergencies of the upper and lower airway

In the evaluation of upper airway abnormalities, the current standard for imaging relies initially on radiography, which may then be followed by contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) of the neck. Lower airway abnormalities are most commonly evaluated by radiography, although traumatic injuries to the chest may warrant cross-sectional imaging with computed tomography (CT).

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 Common Pediatric Respiratory Emergencies

Acute respiratory distress is one of the most common reasons why parents bring their children to the emergency department (ED). Severity can range from mild, self-limiting illness to life-threatening disease. This article reviews the 4 most common of these conditions, namely asthma, croup, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia,

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Four Common Pediatric Respiratory Emergencies (And How to Avoid Them)

Pediatric respiratory emergencies are frightening for all involved. But readiness, alertness, and decisive action on your part can prevent many of the associated complications.

Pediatric Respiratory Emergencies

Respiratory emergencies are common in children, and emergency providers must anticipate respiratory compromise and intervene early. Respiratory emergencies can be broadly categorized into upper and lower respiratory diseases. Sometimes the diagnosis is classic and easily made based on history and confirmed by key physical examination findings. Other times, the diagnosis can be more challenging to confirm, and there may be presentation overlap.

Pediatric Respiratory Emergencies: Know The Signs

Let’s face it: Pediatric patients make even the most seasoned paramedics a bit nervous. Because adults make up the majority of EMS patients, when that little one comes along, it can produce anxiety even among the most experienced medics. And when the child is having trouble breathing, your unease can go through the roof.

Pediatric Upper Airway Infectious Disease Emergencies

Pediatric upper airway infections are among the most common entities encountered by emergency physicians. Although they have overlapping symptoms and share common etiologic agents, each is a distinct clinical entity with characteristic presentation, course, and definitive management.

Respiratory emergencies in children

Respiratory emergencies in children are not uncommon and when they occur, they are somewhat more difficult to manage than in adults for several reasons. First, the patient is fragile, secondly, the entire oral cavity and upper airway are small and easily prone to obstruction, and third, without having the right tools and equipment, resuscitation can be difficult. Finally, unlike an adult, the child has a limited respiratory reserve and respiratory distress can quickly lead to cardiopulmonary arrest

Resources

10 Common Pediatric Airway Problems—And Their Solutions

Infants are children up to 12 months old, and toddlers are between 1 and 2 years old. This article will concentrate on the differences in these youngest age groups. A young patient’s increased parasympathetic tone, immature brain, underdeveloped respiratory center, and behavioral responses increase the risk for airway complications and respiratory failure