Pediatric Respiratory System Disorders Overview

Jan 24, 2025

Respiratory System Disorders in Pediatric Population

Topics Covered

  • Pertussis
  • Influenza
  • Pneumonia

Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

  • Description: Highly contagious bacterial infection of the respiratory tract spread through droplets.
  • Prevention: DTaP vaccine (P stands for pertussis).
  • Risk Factors:
    • Close contact with an infected person.
    • Lack of vaccination.
    • Immunodeficiency.
  • Signs & Symptoms:
    • Low-grade fever.
    • Rapid coughing followed by a high-pitched "whoop" sound.
    • Vomiting and cyanosis.
    • Severe cases can lead to cracked ribs from violent coughing.
  • Diagnosis: Nasopharyngeal swab to detect pertussis bacteria.
  • Treatment:
    • Antibiotics.
    • Oxygen therapy.
    • Suctioning.
  • Nursing Care:
    • Droplet precautions.
    • High Fowler's position during coughing.

Influenza

  • Description: Common viral infection of the respiratory tract spread through droplets.
  • Prevention: Annual influenza vaccine starting at age six months.
  • Signs & Symptoms:
    • Fever, chills, cough.
    • Sore throat, muscle aches, headache, fatigue.
  • Diagnosis: Nasopharyngeal swab.
  • Treatment:
    • Antiviral agents (e.g., oseltamivir) within 48 hours of symptom onset.
    • Increased fluid intake.
    • Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever.
    • Avoid aspirin due to Reye's syndrome risk.

Pneumonia

  • Description: Lung infection caused by viral, bacterial, or fungal infection.
  • Prevention: PCV vaccine (pneumococcal vaccine) effective against 13 types of bacteria.
  • Signs & Symptoms:
    • Chest pain, fever, cough.
    • Abnormal lung sounds (crackles, decreased breath sounds).
    • Respiratory distress (nasal flaring, retractions).
    • Pallor or cyanosis in severe cases.
  • Diagnosis:
    • Chest x-ray.
    • Labs showing elevated WBCs and decreased oxygen saturation.
  • Treatment:
    • Antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungal agents as needed.
    • Oxygen, IV fluids, antipyretics.

Quiz Questions

  1. What respiratory disorder causes rapid coughing followed by a high-pitched whooping sound?
    • Answer: Pertussis
  2. What precautions are required for a patient with pertussis?
    • Answer: Droplet precautions
  3. When should antiviral agents be initiated for influenza?
    • Answer: Within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms
  4. Vaccinations can help prevent all of the disorders discussed in the video. True or False?
    • Answer: True
  • Additional Notes: Always encourage watching further educational content and using tools like flashcards for better study outcomes.