Paediatric anaesthesia
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Paediatric anaesthesia · Jun 2023
ReviewThe Role of Local Inflammation in Complications Associated with Intubation in Pediatric Patients: A Narrative Review.
Although the most important primary local inflammatory response factor to intubation is not yet clear, it is known that it may be directly attributed to the presence of trauma during intubation or the response of oral bacterial flora present in the trachea. It is known that prolonged intubation is associated with worse outcomes, but other underlying systemic issues, such as sepsis and trauma, are also associated with this result. Likewise, patients who require advanced airway management and excessive manipulation are more likely to experience complications. ⋯ However, there is little evidence on the management of the inflammatory response induced by orotracheal intubation in pediatric patients. Therefore, the aim of this narrative review is to highlight the intubation associated complications that can arise from poorly controlled inflammation in intubated pediatric patients, review the proposed pathophysiology behind this, and discuss the current treatments that exist. Finally, taking into account the discussion on pathophysiology, we describe the current therapies being developed and future directions that can be taken in order to create more treatment options within this patient population.
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Paediatric anaesthesia · Jun 2023
Assessing the utility of ultrasound-guided vascular access placement with longer catheters in critically ill pediatric patients.
Critically ill pediatric patients can have difficulty with establishing and maintaining stable vascular access. A long-dwelling peripheral intravenous catheter placement decreases the need for additional vascular interventions. ⋯ In critically ill pediatric patients with difficult vascular access, ultrasound-guided long peripheral intravenous catheters provide an alternative to traditional approach standard-sized intravenous catheters with improved longevity, lower failure rates, and reduced need for additional vascular interventions.
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Paediatric anaesthesia · Jun 2023
Case ReportsUnexpectedly low oxygen saturation in a child with a variant hemoglobin.
We report a child with an unexpected low saturation reading despite normal values having been recorded soon after birth. A family history of Rothschild hemoglobin variant affecting the father was obtained. Saturation values improved with oxygen and anesthesia was uneventful. The development of low saturation values as the child matures is explained, and management for future health presentations outlined.
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Paediatric anaesthesia · Jun 2023
ReviewAnxiety in Children: A review on how to address it in the perioperative setting post pandemic.
In this paper, we review the psychological burden of SARS-CoV-2 on children and how health care workers can play a role in mitigating its mental health impact during anesthetic procedures. We evaluate the societal changes that have affected children over 2 years of the pandemic and the subsequent soaring rates of anxiety and depression reported. ⋯ Providers can utilize techniques based on developmental milestones, Certified Child Life Specialists, parental presence during induction, and medications to reduce anxiety. As health care workers, we need to recognize and address these concerns as untreated mental health issues can leave long-term consequences for children.