Adult vs Pedi

Where is the pediatric larynx located?

C3/C4

How does the pediatric trachea differ from an adult’s?

Bifurcates at a higher level

What is the narrowest part of the pediatric airway?

Cricoid ring

What is the narrowest part of the adult airway?

Vocal cords

How do the jaw and tongue compare in children?

Proportionately larger

What is the shape of the pediatric epiglottis?

Omega-shaped

At what angle does the pediatric epiglottis extend into the airway?

45-degree angle

What should be placed under the shoulders of small children for airway alignment?

Padding

What should be avoided when positioning a child’s airway?

Hyperflexion or extension of the neck

How should intubation be performed in children?

Gently to avoid soft-tissue injury

How may infants breathe during the first month of life?

Through their nose

How does pediatric tidal volume compare to adults?

Proportionately smaller

How do pediatric metabolic oxygen requirements compare to adults?

Double that of adults

How do pediatric oxygen reserves compare to adults?

Smaller

What provides most chest wall support in children?

Muscles

Why are children prone to respiratory fatigue?

Chest wall muscles tire easily during respiratory distress

What are signs of respiratory distress in children?

Increased and inadequate respiratory rate and effort, no distal air movement, nasal flaring, retractions, seesaw breathing, grunting, cyanosis, or low oxygen saturation despite supplemental oxygen

How do children increase cardiac output compared to adults?

Less able than adults

How do children compensate for blood pressure loss compared to adults?

Can vasoconstrict longer and maintain blood pressure longer

What can loss of small volumes of fluid or blood cause in children?

Shock

Can children be in shock with a normal blood pressure?

Yes

What is a common pediatric response to hypoxia?

Bradycardia

What is a common adult response to hypoxia?

Tachycardia

How does pediatric skin compare to adult skin?

Thinner and more elastic

How much subcutaneous fat do children have compared to adults?

Less

What does decreased subcutaneous fat increase the risk of?

Hypothermia, hyperthermia, and dehydration

What temperature-regulating limitations do newborns have?

Limited ability to shiver or sweat to maintain temperature