Airway Anatomy & Physiology
Why are infants more prone to airway obstruction than older children?
They have smaller, narrower airways and larger tongues
What is the hallmark barky cough, inspiratory stridor, and hoarseness called?
Croup (laryngotracheobronchitis)
Which chronic inflammatory disorder causes airway hyperresponsiveness and reversible obstruction?
Asthma
What oxygen delivery device provides up to 6 L/min for children who can breathe on their own?
Nasal cannula
What is the life-threatening complication of asthma with silent chest sounds?
Status asthmaticus
At what respiratory rate should a newborn be considered tachypneic?
>60 breaths/min
What bacterial infection presents with drooling, dysphagia, and a “tripod” position?
Epiglottitis
In cystic fibrosis, what organ systems are most affected besides lungs?
Pancreas, GI tract, and reproductive system
What chest physiotherapy position helps drain the lower lobes anteriorly?
Trendelenburg position with patient supine
Which emergency condition involves air in the pleural space causing lung collapse?
Pneumothorax
Which lung sounds indicate fluid in the small airways/alveoli?
Crackles (rales)
What is the first priority if epiglottitis is suspected?
Secure the airway and avoid throat inspection
What is the primary dietary modification for cystic fibrosis
High-calorie, high-protein diet with pancreatic enzymes
Which med reduces airway inflammation in asthma but is not for acute attacks?
Inhaled corticosteroid
Name a sign of impending respiratory failure in a child.
Bradypnea, bradycardia, cyanosis, poor effort, altered LOC
Which position should you place a child in to maximize airway opening?
The sniffing position or semi-Fowler’s
What virus most commonly causes bronchiolitis in infants?
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus)
Which asthma drug is used for quick relief during an acute attack?
Short-acting beta-agonist (albuterol)
In CF, why are fat-soluble vitamins given in water-miscible form?
Because of fat malabsorption due to pancreatic insufficiency.
In foreign body aspiration, where in the airway is obstruction most common?
Right mainstem bronchus
Why can nasal congestion cause respiratory distress in young infants?
They are obligate nose breathers
Which type of isolation is needed for RSV?
Contact and droplet precautions
What is the hallmark triad of cystic fibrosis?
Chronic lung disease, pancreatic insufficiency, and high sweat chloride
What is the target pulse oximetry range for most pediatric patients with respiratory illness?
≥ 92%?
Which device should be ready at the bedside for a child with a tracheostomy?
A spare trach tube (same size and one size smaller)