State-of-the-art management of the acutely unwell child

Abstract

Children make up around one-fifth of all emergency department visits in the USA and UK, with an increasing trend of emergency admissions requiring intensive care. Anaesthetists play a vital role in the management of paediatric emergencies contributing to stabilisation, emergency anaesthesia, transfers and non-technical skills that optimise team performance. From neonates to adolescents, paediatric patients have diverse physiology and present with a range of congenital and acquired pathologies that often differ from the adult population. With increasing centralisation of paediatric services, staff outside these centres have less exposure to caring for children, yet are often the first responders in managing these high stakes situations. Staying abreast of the latest evidence for managing complex low frequency emergencies is a challenge. This review focuses on recent evidence and pertinent clinical updates within the field. The challenges of maintaining skills and training are explored as well as novel advancements in care.