In today's post, we are discussing the Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) Systematic Approach.
For a full discussion on YouTube: https://youtu.be/28TCmtmWBZQ
We should always use a systematic approach when caring for a seriously ill or injured child so that we can Quickly recognize signs of Respiratory Distress, Respiratory Failure, and Shock and immediately provide life-saving interventions.
The PALS Systematic approach includes 4 components: Initial Assessment, Primary Assessment, Secondary Assessment, and Diagnostic Tests.
Throughout our PALS Systematic approach, we will follow the Evaluate- Identify and Intervene sequence, as we take care of the sick or injured child. From the information gathered during our evaluation, identify the child’s clinical condition by type and severity and intervene with appropriate actions.
⚠️Remember TEAM: At any point, if you identify a life-threatening condition, immediately intervene with your life-saving interventions.
Initial Assessment:
A- Appearance
B- Breathing
C- Circulation (Color)
Primary Assessment:
A- Airway: Open, Maintain & Protect
B- Breathing: RR, Pattern, SpO2, Effort & Lung Sounds
C- Circulation: HR, BP, Cap, Central/Peripheral pulses
D- Disability: AVPU, Pupils, Glucose
E- Exposure: Temp & Rashes
Secondary Assessment:
S- Signs & Symptoms
A- Allergies
M- Medications
P- Past Medical History
L- Last Meal
E- Events leading up to injury illness
Repeat Vitals
Head to Toe
Diagnostic Assessment:
ECG, X-ray, ABG, VBG, etc.