5 Common Respiratory and Infectious Disorders Free Online FlashCards

What should you observe before disturbing a child during respiratory assessment?

Observe appearance, color, alertness, ability to speak or feed, and breathing pattern before disturbing the child.

Which respiratory warning signs in a child require emergency care?

Severe or worsening breathing difficulty, blue or gray lips or face, pauses in breathing, marked retractions, inability to drink or speak from breathlessness, unusual difficulty waking, or dehydration require emergency care.

What fever requires prompt evaluation in an infant 3 months old or younger?

A rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher in an infant 3 months old or younger requires prompt medical evaluation.

What supportive care can help a child with a common cold?

Most colds improve with time and supportive care. Encourage fluids and rest; saline drops or spray and gentle nasal suction can help an infant, especially before feeds.

Which children are at increased risk of flu complications, and when do antivirals work best?

Children younger than 5, especially those younger than 2, and children with certain chronic conditions have increased risk of flu complications. Contact a clinician promptly if flu is suspected in a higher-risk child; antivirals work best when started early.

How can RSV appear in young infants?

RSV may begin like a cold and progress to cough, wheezing, fast breathing, or difficulty feeding. Young infants may instead show irritability, reduced activity, poor feeding, or pauses in breathing.

What is the usual management of viral bronchiolitis?

Care is usually supportive: keep the nose clear, offer appropriate fluids or feeds, and monitor breathing and hydration. Antibiotics and routine bronchodilators are not recommended for typical viral bronchiolitis.

What are characteristic symptoms of croup?

Croup causes a bark-like cough and hoarse voice; some children also have stridor, a harsh sound when breathing in.

How does the cause of pneumonia affect antibiotic treatment?

Viruses and bacteria can both cause pneumonia, so treatment depends on clinical assessment. Antibiotics are appropriate for suspected bacterial pneumonia, not viral illness.

How is acute otitis media diagnosed, and what may be appropriate for some mild cases?

A clinician diagnoses acute otitis media by examining the eardrum. Some mild cases can be observed with follow-up rather than treated immediately with antibiotics.

What everyday steps help prevent respiratory infections in children?

Encourage handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, avoiding tobacco smoke, and keeping recommended immunizations up to date.

How should a child's respiratory rate be counted?

Count respirations for a full minute while the child is calm, then interpret the rate in light of age and clinical context.