Pediatric vs Adult Physiology
This explains why children deteriorate faster: they have lower FRC and smaller reserve.
What is smaller physiologic reserve?
Because children fatigue quickly, this intervention is prioritized early.
What is airway/respiratory support (HFNC, CPAP, BVM, intubation)?
This respiratory illness is a leading cause of pediatric decompensation in winter.
What is bronchiolitis (RSV)?
This viral illness causes high fever followed by rash once the fever breaks.
What is Roseola (HHV‑6)?
This tool works well in adults but poorly in pediatrics.
What is the Shock Index?
In pediatric shock, this vital sign drops late.
What is blood pressure (hypotension)?
Pediatric fluid resuscitation must be done this way to avoid overload.
What is judiciously / cautiously?
This cardiac condition involves coronary artery inflammation and can lead to shock.
What is Kawasaki disease?
This childhood infection presents with a sandpaper‑like rash and is caused by Group A Streptococcus.
What is Scarlet Fever?
Children maintain strong reserves of these hormones even when in shock.
What are catecholamines?
Children maintain cardiac output primarily through this mechanism.
What is heart rate?
If shock persists after fluids, this class of medications is initiated.
What are vasopressors?
This metabolic group of disorders often presents with encephalopathy and acidosis.
What are inborn errors of metabolism?
This disease peaks in infancy and can rapidly progress to septic shock and DIC.
What is meningococcal disease?
This inotrope is first‑line for pediatric cold shock.
What is epinephrine?
This metabolic feature means children consume oxygen faster than adults.
What is higher metabolic demand?
This metabolic parameter must be checked early because children burn through it quickly.
What is glucose?
This GI emergency involves telescoping of the bowel and can cause shock.
What is intussusception?
Painful oral lesions in this illness can cause dehydration.
What is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?
This inotrope is first‑line for pediatric warm shock.
What is norepinephrine?
These two organs are immature in children, affecting drug handling and fluid balance.
What are the kidneys and liver?
This environmental factor must be controlled because children lose heat rapidly.
What is temperature?
This inflammatory syndrome associated with COVID‑19 can cause profound shock.
What is MIS‑C (or PIMS)?
This infectious disease can cause life‑threatening airway obstruction due to a “barking” cough and inspiratory stridor, especially in younger children
What is croup?
This vasopressor is not recommended because it can worsen perfusion and cause bradycardia.
What is phenylephrine?