Pediatric emergencies are different for nurses not trained in pediatrics because of differences in pediatric body structure, function, and emotional support. Children require different techniques in an emergency because they have smaller airways, faster heart rates, and more stress responses than adults.
Nurses may sometimes run into pediatric cases in emergency rooms, community health centers, or even schools. It is crucial for the non-pediatric nurse to acquire basic skills in pediatric emergencies to give the right and safe care to the child. This blog provides step-by-step guidelines and tips on handling pediatric emergencies and providing your clients with the necessary comfort.
Key Differences Between Pediatric and Adult Emergency Care
Pediatric patients are different from adults in size and anatomy, so the approaches to emergency care are different. Children have smaller airways and larger heads, making airway management difficult and requiring precise equipment sizing to avoid complications. In addition, physiological differences mean that children have higher heart and respiratory rates and decompensate more rapidly than adults; thus, early intervention is crucial. For instance, pediatric shock may stay compensated for longer, then it suddenly worsens, whereas adult shock develops gradually.
This article also emphasizes the importance of understanding developmental psychology. Children, for example, cannot always express their pain or fear in words but will tend to cry or withdraw. Addressing the needs of each age group using simple language, pictures, and calming techniques in an emergency can improve the efficacy of the care given.
These concerns show a need for special pediatric protocols to provide safe and proper care.
Guidelines for Common Pediatric Emergencies
Non-pediatric nurses can face many pediatric emergencies, and for each of them, there are certain rules. Since childrens airways are smaller, it is important to identify respiratory distress early. Some of the signs include increased rate of breathing, use of accessory muscles to breathe, and flaring of the nostrils; the first action to take is to place the patient in the correct position and suction them while giving oxygen using child-appropriate devices.
Febrile seizures are another of the most frequent emergencies, which is usually associated with high fevers in children. It is recommended that nurses protect the child, but not restrain them, to observe the childs vital signs, and comfort the parents/caregivers that such seizures are usually not dangerous.
Anaphylaxis can be treated effectively if you assess the patient and provide an EpiPen right away. The presence of swelling, difficulty in breathing, and hives should be watched for. Possible rebound phenomena should also be monitored.
For accidental ingestion and poisoning, symptoms include drowsiness or vomiting, and it is recommended to seek the poison control center's opinion about the next steps.
When dealing with an injury or trauma, including fractures or head injuries, the patient needs to be handled gently, stabilized, and closely observed for any deterioration since children are more likely to experience shock and complications.
Every protocol shows the need for fast and targeted action in children's emergency care.
How to Comfort Young Patients
When interacting with patients, it is better to use simple language. Instead of saying, I need to take your blood pressure, translate it into the child's language, for example, Im going to hold your arm for a second. It is better to tell the child that he will feel a quick pinch than to tell him it will hurt when you give him an injection.
Calming techniques are important for reducing anxiety in pediatric emergencies. Some techniques can divert a childs attention from the source of fear or pain, including toys, picture books, or a favorite song. Some hospitals go the extra mile to provide fun devices for kids, such as colorful oxygen masks, which make medical tools less intimidating.
Family-centered care is important, especially because parents are always involved in the childs comfort. For instance, allowing parents to stay nearby can help. Encouraging soft talk or involving them in simple tasks also helps the child and the family feel secure during treatment. This sense of security is vital during treatment, especially if the child is hospitalized.
Talking to Anxious Parents
Pediatric emergencies bring about anxiety in parents as they tend to feel anxious or helpless. Nurses can address these concerns with empathy by putting themselves in the parents shoes and letting them express their concerns. Some examples include, This is pretty scary; I can understand that you are afraid, which shows understanding and establishes trust.
Important aspects include simple and plain language used to reduce parents' anxiety. For example, instead of using medical terms, the nurse could explain to the parents, We will give your child a drug to improve their breathing. Furthermore, explaining the subsequent steps reduces the uncertainty to some extent.
In cases of emotional intensity, it is crucial to maintain professional behavior. Displaying assurance and taking your time creates a more predictable and less frightening situation. The nurses should also keep calm and offer support to the parents, encouraging them to open up to them even when stressed.
Essential Equipment
Having the right sized equipment for pediatric patients can be crucial in non-pediatric settings. The essential items are child-size airway devices, masks and oxygen tubing, IV catheters, and blood pressure cuffs for young patients. Weight-based medications such as epinephrine and acetaminophen should be easily obtained and used with dosing guides.
Restocking standards suggest that pediatric supplies be placed in a separate area and marked to avoid the confusion that could derail care during an emergency. It is important to check expiration dates and have backups, as it is critical to be ready to give rapid, efficient care when pediatric emergencies happen.
Training and Resources for Non-Pediatric Nurses
Advanced training like Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) is crucial for nurses to learn the necessary skills to handle children's emergencies. PALS covers essential topics such as pediatric resuscitation and airway management. Furthermore, the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) provides online courses with specialized training in pediatric basics and emergency protocols.
These programs offer continuous education; therefore, they enhance the confidence and preparedness of nurses in pediatric scenarios so they can provide safe and effective care in pediatric emergencies despite being in non-specialized settings. This is particularly important for nurses who may encounter pediatric patients in various clinical environments. Nurses who are familiar with these protocols are better equipped to manage emergencies and ensure positive outcomes for the children in their care.
Conclusion
This blog shows that preparation, adaptability, and effective communication are important when handling pediatric emergencies, especially for the non-pediatric nurse. It is important to have the right skills and to know the specific features of the young patient to improve the results of the treatment in critical situations.
Knowledge and training focused on children, such as PALS or other certifications, can help a nurse respond better. These skills can be developed to improve the quality of care and the much-needed confidence in managing pediatric cases for nurses. Signing up for pediatric-specific training can increase expertise and readiness in handling any emergency that can happen to children.
About the Author:
Nicole Ricketts-Murray is a registered nurse (RN) who has a passion for traveling and discovering new places. With 17 years of experience in the field of nursing and a multistate nursing license, she is a highly qualified professional. Apart from her professional expertise, she is also an avid writer and enjoys sharing her insights and experiences with others.
Nicole is an independent contributor to CEUfast's Nursing Blog Program. Please note that the views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this blog post are solely of the independent contributor and do not necessarily represent those of CEUfast. This blog post is not medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any health-related questions or concerns.
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