Recognizing Respiratory Emergencies Flashcards

A 9-year-old with a history of asthma has audible wheeze, SpO2 92%, is using accessory muscles, and can only speak 2–3 words at a time. How would you classify this child?

Answer: Respiratory failure

SpO2 of 92%, accessory muscle use, and inability to speak in full sentences indicate respiratory failure requiring urgent intervention.

Which of the following breath sound findings is most consistent with pneumonia in a child?

Answer: Focal decreased breath sounds with crackles

Focal crackles and decreased breath sounds localized to one area suggest consolidation consistent with pneumonia.

In PEARS, which component of the Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT) specifically evaluates breathing?

Answer: Work of breathing

The Work of Breathing component of the PAT assesses for abnormal breathing sounds, position, retractions, and nasal flaring.

A toddler is sitting upright, drooling, has a muffled voice, and appears toxic. Which condition should be suspected immediately?

Answer: Epiglottitis

Drooling, muffled voice, toxic appearance, and tripod positioning are classic signs of epiglottitis, a life-threatening emergency.

Which of the following is the earliest sign of hypoxia in most pediatric patients?

Answer: Tachycardia

Tachycardia is typically the earliest compensatory response to hypoxia in children.

A 3-year-old with no fever suddenly develops stridor and refuses to eat. Her parents report she was playing with small toys minutes before. What is the priority assessment finding that would most support foreign body aspiration?

Answer: Unilateral absent or decreased breath sounds

Unilateral absent or decreased breath sounds strongly support bronchial foreign body aspiration causing partial or complete obstruction.

What is the significance of head bobbing in an infant with respiratory distress?

Answer: It reflects severe increased work of breathing using neck muscles

Head bobbing in infants indicates use of accessory neck muscles for breathing and signals severe respiratory distress.