What are the initial steps in managing a pediatric emergency?
Initial management of a pediatric emergency follows the principles of Advanced Pediatric Life Support (APLS), which emphasizes the "ABCDE" approach: assessing and managing Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability (neurological status), and Exposure (completely undressing the child to look for hidden injuries). These steps help to quickly identify life-threatening conditions and prioritize interventions.