Pediatric Assessment Pearls- exam 1

Children Are Not Small Adults

Anatomy and physiology differ, illness progresses quickly, and development guides assessment.

Observation Before Touch

Observe parent-child interaction, position of comfort, speech/cry, color, and activity.

Developmental Approach

Infant: with parent, uncomfy last; Toddler: simple choices, explore, demo/play; Preschool: simple honest explanations; School-age: learning, concrete; Adolescent: respect privacy & independence.

Age-Specific Vital Signs

Always compare to age norms; use the correct BP cuff (small cuff = ↑ BP); count RR before touching.

Respiratory Pearls

Signs of work of breathing include retractions, nasal flaring, and grunting (last sign; splinting/open-airway mechanism to maintain alveolar oxygenation). Stridor = upper airway; wheezing = lower airway.

Asthma emergency sign

suddenly silent chest

Cardiovascular Pearls

Assess cap refill, pulses, murmurs, and hydration.

Hydration Assessment

Assess tears, fontanel, wet diapers (normal = 6 wet diapers/day), and mucous membranes.

Neurologic Assessment

Assess AVPU, level of consciousness (LOC), pupils, and developmental milestones.

Skin Assessment

Assess for cyanosis, pallor, mottling, and petechiae.

Common Pediatric Red Flags

Lethargy, poor perfusion, silent chest, and persistent tachycardia.

Key Pediatric Assessment Takeaways

Observe first, development matters, family is essential, and early recognition saves lives.