Pediatric Resuscitation: Procedures and Guidelines
Vital Overview of Pediatric Resuscitation
Pediatric resuscitation involves administering immediate and appropriate medical care to children who are not breathing or whose hearts have stopped beating. Pediatric resuscitation encompasses a series of life-saving techniques that aim to restore breathing and circulation in children. Unlike adults, children have unique physiological characteristics and smaller airways, necessitating specialized resuscitation procedures.
Initial Assessment and Airway Management
Upon encountering a child in respiratory or cardiac arrest, it is crucial to initiate immediate resuscitation efforts. Begin with assessing the child's responsiveness by gently shaking them and calling their name. If the child does not respond, open the airway using the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver. Check for breathing by looking, listening, and feeling for respirations. If the child is not breathing, initiate rescue breathing immediately.
Rescue Breathing and Circulation
Rescue breathing involves providing artificial breaths to the child. Use a bag-valve mask or a mouth-to-mouth technique, ensuring a proper seal over the child's mouth and nose. Deliver breaths at a rate of 20-30 breaths per minute. Simultaneously, assess the child's circulation by checking for a pulse at the brachial or femoral artery. If no pulse is palpable, initiate chest compressions.
Chest Compressions and Defibrillation
Chest compressions are performed by placing the heel of one hand on the center of the child's chest, between the nipples. Use the other hand to interlock fingers and compress the chest at a depth of approximately 1.5-2 inches. Perform compressions at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. If an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available and indicates a shockable rhythm, deliver the shock as per the AED's instructions.
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