On scene, you find a 2-year-old male in significant respiratory distress. He is responsive to verbal stimuli and exhibits noisy respirations through an open airway. His breathing is shallow at a rate of 44 breaths per minute. His pulse is rapid. Assessment of the skin shows it to be cool and diaphoretic with cyanosis to the extremities and around the mouth. What is the immediate priority for this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The immediate priority for a patient in significant respiratory distress with shallow, rapid breathing and signs of inadequate oxygenation (e.g., cyanosis) is to ensure adequate ventilation and oxygenation. Starting positive pressure ventilation addresses the need for both improved ventilation and oxygen delivery, especially in a pediatric patient showing signs of severe respiratory distress.

On Scene, You Find a 2-Year-Old Male in Significant Respiratory