What should the Paramedics do when they arrive on scene?

In this short video we can see the paramedics arriving at the scene of a child in respiratory distress.

These sorts of cases are always a concern, respiratory distress in children can quickly deteriorate so we need to quickly but calmly make a rapid assessment as soon as we arrive to determine if the child’s condition is life threatening.

You need to take in as much information as you can on initial approach and also think of the the emergency procedures that you’ll need to do if the child turns out to be seriously ill.

First of all, let’s discuss the key factors for this particular child:

1. What immediate concerns do you have? Is this child time critical? Why/why not?
2. Are there any red flags?
3. What will your assessment approach be?
4. How will the outcome of your assessment focus the rest of your examinations?

Have a think about these questions and discuss below.