What are the Key Steps in Pediatric Resuscitation?
The resuscitation process can be broken down into several critical steps:
1. Initial Assessment: Quickly assess responsiveness, airway, breathing, and circulation. The use of the Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT) can be helpful. 2. Airway Management: Ensure the airway is clear. Use the head-tilt-chin-lift or jaw-thrust maneuver if needed. 3. Breathing: Provide oxygen and ventilation. For infants and young children, use a bag-valve-mask (BVM) with appropriate size. 4. Circulation: Check for a pulse. If absent or very weak, begin chest compressions. 5. Defibrillation: If the child is in ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia, use a defibrillator with pediatric settings.
