Paediatric Cardiac Arrest CPG Notes Flashcards
(29 cards)
What are the five primary care objectives in paediatric medical cardiac arrest?
Effective airway control and ventilation/oxygenation
High-quality compressions with minimal interruptions
Rapid defibrillation of VF/pulseless VT (shock if in doubt)
Advanced care (e.g. adrenaline, antiarrhythmics) if it doesn’t delay CPR/defib
Address correctable causes
These objectives guide the critical care process in paediatric cardiac arrest situations.
Who is the intended patient group for this CPG?
Patients <16 years old in cardiac arrest (excluding newborns).
This guideline specifically targets children in cardiac arrest to improve outcomes.
When should compressions be started if pulse is uncertain in an unconscious patient?
Immediately commence compressions.
Timely initiation of compressions is crucial for survival.
How do you differentiate medical vs traumatic cardiac arrest?
Based on history, mechanism or pattern of injury.
If unclear, default to medical cardiac arrest CPG.
Understanding the cause of cardiac arrest can influence treatment decisions.
When are carotid pulse checks required?
Only when a potentially perfusing rhythm is present.
This helps avoid unnecessary interruptions during CPR.
What does a sudden rise in ETCO2 indicate?
Return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).
ETCO2 monitoring is a valuable tool in assessing patient status during resuscitation.
What does a gradual decline in ETCO2 suggest?
CPR fatigue.
Recognizing CPR fatigue can help in adjusting resuscitation efforts.
What is the initial airway strategy?
Position airway, insert OPA/NPA, commence BVM, apply defib pads.
Proper airway management is essential in paediatric resuscitation.
What should be prioritised in children <5 years old?
Use BVM or SGA until ROSC. Defer intubation unless necessary.
This approach minimizes trauma and complications in young children.
When should IO access be used?
If IV access is not achieved within 60 seconds.
In emergencies, quick vascular access is critical for medication delivery.
What is the fluid strategy in shockable rhythms?
Limit to medication flush and TKVO only.
This strategy helps to maintain fluid balance while managing shockable rhythms.
Which patients should use Zoll Pedi-padz?
Patients <8 years or <25 kg.
Appropriate pad usage is vital for effective defibrillation.
What pad placement is used for paediatrics?
Anterior-posterior.
Correct pad placement enhances the effectiveness of defibrillation.
What is the recommended compression rate?
100–120 compressions per minute.
This rate is associated with better outcomes during CPR.
What is the ventilation rate for infants with an ETT/SGA?
25 breaths per minute.
Accurate ventilation rates are crucial for effective resuscitation.
How long should CPR interruptions be?
Less than or equal to 3 seconds.
Minimizing interruptions is essential for maintaining blood flow.
When should defibrillator be charged?
During compressions.
Charging during compressions allows for timely defibrillation.
What technique should a single rescuer use for infants?
Two-finger technique.
This technique is specifically designed for infants to ensure safety and effectiveness.
What technique is used for small children?
One-hand technique.
Adapting techniques based on the child’s size is important for effective CPR.
When should antiarrhythmics be considered?
For VF/VT refractory to 3 shocks.
This protocol helps manage persistent arrhythmias effectively.
What age group can mCPR be used for?
Patients ≥8 years old.
Mechanical CPR is tailored for older paediatric patients.
When is mCPR appropriate in paediatrics?
Only for transport or as a last resort (fatigue, low resources).
This ensures mCPR is used judiciously.
What adrenaline dose is used during transport?
10 mcg/kg IV every 4 minutes.
Consistent dosing is vital for maintaining cardiovascular support during transport.
Should vehicle stop for rhythm checks?
No, continue transport.
Continuous transport is prioritized to ensure timely care.
