Tech in Surgery Prep / Unit 15 TSC 365 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Pediatric Patients
The idea
Infants and young children have needs in surgery that differ from adults', both physically and emotionally.
In practice
Learn the main considerations the textbook names. First, metabolism: infants clear medications more slowly, so medications are dosed by weight and effects may last longer. Second, temperature: infants lose heat easily and are more susceptible to hypothermia, so temperature is watched closely and warming is used. Third, airway: infants have smaller, more pliable airways, so airway management needs careful attention. Fourth, emotion: children may be frightened and may not understand what is happening, and a child's report of being aware during anesthesia is taken seriously, not dismissed. Fifth, family: parents or guardians give consent and are kept informed.
Where people slip
Everything for a child is sized for the child: equipment, positioning supports, and warming. The scrub person checks that pediatric sizes are on the field before the case begins.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Builds on
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