15.1 Introduction to Childhood Respiratory Disorders
Learning Objectives
- Identify appropriate nursing and medical care for common childhood illnesses that affect the respiratory system
- Determine teaching concepts related to the ill child with a respiratory illness
Respiratory disorders in children present unique challenges, requiring a delicate balance of clinical skill, empathy, and patience. As frontline caregivers, nurses play a pivotal role in the management of these conditions. This chapter will explore the respiratory system and examine pediatric considerations with anatomy, physiology, and assessment. We will also investigate conditions that can affect the optimal functioning of the respiratory system from the common cold to life-threatening illnesses such as bronchiolitis and epiglottitis.
The respiratory system consists of organs such as the nose, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. It serves as the vital mechanism for gas exchange within the body, facilitating the intake of oxygen from the air and the removal of carbon dioxide from cellular waste. Beyond its role in gas exchange, the respiratory system also plays a role in acid-base balance, speech, smell, and fluid balance. Efficient respiratory function is essential for maintaining overall health; therefore, nurses must have a thorough understanding of this body system to provide optimal care for clients with respiratory issues.
This chapter will review common respiratory disorders and apply the nursing process and the clinical judgment measurement model for providing care to a pediatric client and their family. Highlights for each disorder include pathophysiology, key assessment findings, diagnostic approaches, and evidence-based interventions tailored to the pediatric population. Overall, the nurse’s aim is not only to alleviate respiratory symptoms but also to promote optimal lung function, facilitate recovery, and empower families to participate actively in their child’s care.