Respiratory distress is manifested by chest tightness, rapid breathing and cyanosis. It requires urgent intervention.
SYMPTOMS OF RESPIRATORY DISTRESS:
1. CHEST DRAWS: - Rib cage retracted - Neck cupping recession - Sub-rib retraction
2. FAST BREATHING: - Baby: 60+/minute - 1-5 years: 40+ / minute - 5+ years: 30+/min
3. OTHER: - Breathing in the wings of the nose - Wheezing - Bruising (lips, nails) - Restlessness or sleepiness - Inability to eat
REASONS: - Asthma - Bronchiolitis - Pneumonia - Foreign body - Allergic reaction - Heart failure
EMERGENCY INTERVENTION: 1. Call 112 2. Keep the child in a comfortable position 3. Loosen tight clothing 4. Give oxygen if available 5. Use an asthma inhaler if available 6. Keep calm
GOING TO THE HOSPITAL: - It is safer to go by ambulance - Maintain position on the road - Watch your breathing
NOTE: Respiratory distress is life-threatening. Intervene immediately!