Pediatric Respiratory Issues Lecture Notes

This set of flashcards covers key concepts, signs, symptoms, and treatments related to pediatric respiratory issues as presented in the lecture.

What are some anatomical differences between pediatric and adult airways?

Pediatric airways have a large tongue relative to the oropharynx, a smaller airway diameter, and cricoid cartilage that is a narrowed area.

What is the significance of infants being obligate nose breathers?

Infants cannot breathe through their mouth, making nasal congestion a common cause of respiratory distress.

How do the breathing rates of children vary with age?

Respiratory rates are higher in infants and decrease with age, sustained rates >60 indicate risk for respiratory arrest.

What are common upper airway issues in children?

Common upper airway concerns include Croup, Epiglottitis, and Foreign Body aspiration.

What are the signs and symptoms of Asthma?

Symptoms include paroxysmal cough, tachypnea, retractions, cyanosis, wheezing, hypoxemia, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

What is the goal of asthma treatment?

The goal is to reduce hospitalizations, increase childhood immunizations, and minimize asthma triggers.

What are common triggers for asthma exacerbation?

Triggers include viral infections, smoke, cold weather, mold, pollutants, and allergens.

What is Bronchiolitis and its main cause?

Bronchiolitis is a lower respiratory infection in infants caused predominantly by RSV.

What are the signs and symptoms of Pneumonia?

Signs include cough, tachypnea, grunting, unequal breath sounds, crackles, wheezes, retractions, chest pain, fever, abdominal pain, and apnea.

What are the characteristics of Croup?

Croup is characterized by inflammation of the larynx and trachea, typically presenting with a cough that increases at night and inspiratory stridor.

What is Epiglottitis and its common causative agent?

Epiglottitis is inflammation of the epiglottis, commonly caused by Haemophilus influenzae (Hib).

What is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic Fibrosis is an autosomal recessive inherited disease that primarily affects the secretory glands, including the pancreas, lungs, and intestines.

What are the S&SX of Tuberculosis?

Signs include a persistent cough (often blood-tinged), weight loss, chills, night sweats, fatigue, and positive PPD.

What management strategies are utilized for Tuberculosis?

Management includes anti-tuberculosis medications, a high protein and calcium diet, periodic chest X-rays, and returning to school after treatment initiation.