Recognizing Respiratory Emergencies Flashcards

A 4-year-old has grunting respirations, SpO2 88%, and altered mental status. Which intervention takes highest priority?

Answer: Begin bag-mask ventilation with 100% oxygen

Grunting, SpO2 88%, and altered mental status indicate respiratory failure; bag-mask ventilation with 100% oxygen is the immediate priority.

Which oxygen delivery device provides the highest concentration of inspired oxygen for a spontaneously breathing child in severe respiratory distress?

Answer: Non-rebreather mask at 10–15 L/min

A non-rebreather mask with high flow oxygen (10–15 L/min) delivers the highest FiO2 (up to 90–95%) among passive delivery devices.

A child presents with grunting on expiration. What physiological purpose does grunting serve in a child with respiratory distress?

Answer: It creates auto-PEEP to prevent alveolar collapse

Grunting creates auto-PEEP by partially closing the glottis, maintaining alveolar recruitment and preventing collapse.

During the PAT, a 2-year-old has decreased muscle tone, poor eye contact, and weak cry. Work of breathing is labored. What does this combination suggest?

Answer: Respiratory failure with CNS depression from hypoxia

Abnormal appearance (decreased tone, poor eye contact) combined with labored breathing indicates respiratory failure causing CNS depression.

Which age group has the highest risk of respiratory failure from even mild upper airway obstruction due to airway anatomy?

Answer: Infants under 12 months

Infants have the smallest absolute airway diameter; even minor edema or obstruction dramatically increases airway resistance and work of breathing.

A child with bronchiolitis has a respiratory rate of 70/min, subcostal and intercostal retractions, SpO2 90%, and is unable to feed. What is the most appropriate classification?

Answer: Respiratory failure

SpO2 of 90%, severe retractions, marked tachypnea, and inability to feed indicate respiratory failure requiring immediate support.

When using the Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT), which finding in the 'Appearance' component suggests inadequate cerebral oxygenation?

Answer: Decreased muscle tone and poor eye contact with stimulation

Decreased muscle tone and poor responsiveness to stimulation in the PAT Appearance reflect inadequate cerebral oxygenation.