Answered: What are the signs of impeding…

6th Edition

ISBN:9781451194524

Author:Ruth McCall, Cathee M. Tankersley MT(ASCP)

Publisher:Ruth McCall, Cathee M. Tankersley MT(ASCP)

Chapter1: Phlebotomy: Past And Present And The Healthcare Setting

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 1SRQ

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Question

What are the signs of impeding respiratory failure in small children

Expert Solution

Step 1: Introduction:

Respiratory failure refers to a condition where the pulmonary system is unable to adequately oxygenate arterial blood and remove carbon dioxide through alveolar gas exchange.
This leads to hypoxemia, defined as abnormally low oxygen levels (<60 mmHg) in arterial blood, and hypercapnia, meaning high carbon dioxide levels (>50 mmHg) in arterial blood.

Causes of respiratory failure:

1. Acute:

Lower respiratory infections like pneumonia can cause inflammation and fluid buildup, impairing gas exchange.
Asthma exacerbations lead to bronchospasm and airway narrowing, limiting airflow and oxygen diffusion.
Pulmonary edema
Chest trauma like rib fractures or flail chest can damage the thoracic wall and interfere with breathing mechanics.
Drug overdoses, especially opioids, can depress the respiratory center in the brain stem.

2. Chronic:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease gradually destroys lung tissue over years of exposure.
Interstitial lung diseases like fibrosis cause scarring of the alveolar walls and spaces.
Cystic fibrosis results in thick, sticky mucus that clogs the airways.
Lung cancer or metastases grow masses that compress the lungs.

Higher risk in children:

The thoracic cage is cartilaginous rather than bony, limiting expansion.
The diaphragm is higher in the chest cavity, shortening the respiratory lever arm.
Airways are smaller, more prone to collapse or obstruction.
Surfactant production is still maturing to reduce alveolar surface tension.