Pediatric patients have less mature immune systems, hygiene habits that lend themselves to transfer of infections, and respiratory anatomy that leads to more upper respiratory infections. Children are not just little adults. Their healthcare emergencies should be addressed by caregivers that understand their unique needs and are prepared to handle their problems appropriately. In this course, we will discuss key topics that explain the anatomical differences in pediatric versus adult respiratory anatomy, some of the more common acute and chronic respiratory illnesses in children, and the intervention that can be lifesaving in an emergency.

Suggested Audience: Hospital staff that may see pediatric patients, especially Emergency Room staff or related roles.

Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:

• Examine differences in child respiratory anatomy.
• Describe childhood acute respiratory emergencies.
• Identify childhood chronic respiratory issues that may present as emergencies.
• Discuss lifesaving interventions for children in respiratory distress.

Learning Outcome Standard: Based upon guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics, presenter expertise, and cited references.

Subscribers & Grant Participants - Find this course within the Patient Safety Series in the School of Quality & Compliance.

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