Pearls • A seizure is a paroxysmal central nervous system disorder resulting from excessive hypersynchronous discharge of cortical neurons. • Status epilepticus is a common pediatric neurologic emergency that requires…

Pearls • The wide availability, ease of use, and low-risk profile of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) make it an attractive alternative to intubation and invasive mechanical ventilation. Consequently, its use is…

Pearls • The miniaturization and increased efficacy of centrifugal pump systems and low-resistance membrane lungs have resulted in a transition from roller pump devices to centrifugal setups in many centers….

Pearls • Updated definitions and classification of pulmonary hypertension have helped to advance the understanding of pulmonary hypertensive diseases and facilitate drug trials. • Four classes of drugs have been…

Pearls • Workload and efficiency define the demands that disease imposes on the respiratory muscles and therefore are the relevant variables in the analysis of the mechanical function of the…

Pearls • Most pediatric pulmonary parenchymal disease occurs as a result of an infectious agent. • Clinical evaluation for parenchymal lung disease in the pediatric patient should include a search…

Pearls • There are distinct differences in the pediatric and adult airway, including the fact that the infant airway is situated higher in the neck (between the second and fourth…

Pearls • Patients with severe acute asthma exacerbations should be promptly and aggressively managed in the emergency department with inhaled β-agonist agents, inhaled ipratropium bromide, oxygen, and a systemic corticosteroid….

Pearls • Both pulmonary and nonpulmonary disorders must be considered as leading to neonatal respiratory distress. • It is important to distinguish respiratory disorders from the normal neonatal cardiorespiratory transition….

Pearls • Children younger than 5 years have nearly equal peripheral and central airway resistance. This makes them more susceptible to developing respiratory failure with illnesses that affect the lower…