You have been called for a 2-year-old male who is sick and having a difficult time breathing. On scene, you find the patient in his mother's arms. He appears to have labored breathing and skin that is warm to the touch. What additional assessment finding would you recognize as the most serious?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The grunting noise heard as the child exhales is a significant finding in a child with difficulty breathing. It indicates an attempt by the child to increase their lung volume and maintain airway pressure, which can be a sign of impending respiratory failure. A respiratory rate of 28 breaths per minute and slight abdominal movement with breathing may be present in a child with labored breathing, while continual crying and a low-grade fever are non-specific symptoms.

You Have Been Called for a 2-Year-Old Male Who Is