Peds Anatomy

Question 1

What airway structures take up more space in pediatrics than in adults?

Answer 1

• tongue - with decreased LOC, this can easily block the airway
• epiglottis - this is why epiglottitis is such a critical problem in children

Question 2

What is the “hallmark finding” on the CXR of children suffering from epiglottitis?

Answer 2

“Steeple sign”

- The epiglottis forms a “steeple” shape over the trachea as is swells

Question 3

What four causes of respiratory distress should be evaluated in pediatric patients?

Answer 3

• Upper airway obstruction
• Lower airway obstruction
• Lung tissue disorders
• Disordered control of breathing

Question 4

What is considered “lung tissue disease?”

Answer 4

Ex: pneumonia

• grunting
• crackles
• decreased air movement

Question 5

Oxygen is considered a “cornerstone” of treating pediatric respiratory distress. Why?

Answer 5

In the ill pediatric patient, they may compensate with adequate pulse oximetry, but then decompensate rapidly.

• Remember*
• Pulse oximetry often lags 3-5 minutes behind what is actually occurring in the patient

Question 6

Low EtCO2 in cardiac arrest should be treated how?

Answer 6

• By optimizing chest compressions (1/3 the AP depth of the chest) at 110-120 compressions/minute

Question 7

What are the two advantages of a laryngeal mask airway (LMA)?

Answer 7

• inserted without visualizing the vocal cords

- used as a “rescue” or blind-insertion device