6 Pediatric Emergency Practice Cases Free Online FlashCards

What three features make up the Pediatric Assessment Triangle?

Appearance, work of breathing, and circulation to the skin.

What does ABCDE assess?

Airway, breathing, circulation, disability (neurologic status and glucose when indicated), and exposure/environment.

Does expected-range blood pressure rule out shock in a child?

Yes. Children may maintain blood pressure during worsening shock, so hypotension can be a late sign.

What changes in an infant with respiratory distress suggest impending respiratory failure?

Worsening fatigue, reduced responsiveness, poor air movement, apnea, cyanosis, or slowing respiratory effort can signal respiratory failure.

Why does a small external wound not exclude serious blood loss after trauma?

A small external wound may be only one part of the problem; mechanism and physiology can warrant concern for significant internal injury.

How can emergency assessment respect an adolescent's cooperation and dignity?

Explain each step plainly, involve the adolescent in developmentally appropriate decisions, and offer a private conversation when feasible and consistent with safety and local policy.

What should be reassessed after each intervention?

Recheck work of breathing, mental status, pulses, skin perfusion, vital signs, and pain; note whether each improves or worsens.

How should abnormalities in the Pediatric Assessment Triangle affect urgency?

An abnormality in any component raises concern; abnormalities in multiple components indicate greater urgency.

When should an immediately dangerous problem found during ABCDE be treated?

Treat immediately dangerous problems as they are found; do not wait until the entire examination is complete.

Which findings can signal compensated shock in a child?

Tachycardia, weak pulses, cool skin, delayed capillary refill, and altered behavior can indicate compensated shock.

Does reduced visible breathing effort always mean an infant is improving?

No. A quieter infant or one showing less visible effort may be deteriorating, especially if responsiveness or air movement declines.

How can care reduce added respiratory strain for an infant?

Keep the infant with the caregiver when feasible, position to support the airway, minimize agitation, and clear obstructing nasal secretions.