Paediatrics in Acute Care Flashcards
In paediatrics talk about airway diameter
It is small
Prone to airway obstruction and decreased airway clearance
Children have smaller alveoli, true or false?
TRUE
Decreased surface area for gas exchange
When is collateral ventilation established?
Develops around 2-4 years
Before then there is a greater risk of atelectasis
Besides having a smaller airway diameter, why are children more prone to upper airway obstruction?
Tongue, tonsils and adenoids tend to be bigger
Why can hypoxaemia develop quickly/increased risk in children?
Due to increased oxygen consumption due to increased metabolic rate and immature thermo-regulation
Persistent damage and dilation of the bronchi which results in mucous collection, with or without secondary infection is
Bronchiectasis
How is bronchiectasis managed?
Managed with best physiotherapy and antibiotics to break the cycle of infection and damage
- Need to target socioeconomic factors to prevent occurrence and deterioration
Postural drainage is where
you use the effect of gravity to assist in moving secretions
Why are percussions and vibrations so effective in children?
Due to a highly compliant chest wall
In terms of postural drainage, how long in each position has been shown to benefit patients?
3-15 minutes
What is SUFE?
Slipped Upper Femoral Epiphysis
Its when the growth plate at the top of the femur is weak and the head of the femur slips downwards and backwards
SS include groin, hip thigh or knee pain, limp, limited movement of the hip joint, there may be slight shortening of the affected leg
Contraindications and precautions to physiotherapy?
Contraindications: - Pulmonary haemorrhage - Within 1 hour following a feed - Very unstable infants or children - Untreated pneumothorax Precautions: - Reflux - Unstable BP - Rib fracture - New central line or chest drain - Abdominal distension - Heart failure
