The first few minutes of a paediatric resuscitation are intimidating and crucial. Every basic life support update we do drills the DRSABCD mnemonic.
Test yourself - What does DRSABCD stand for?
D – Danger – put on some PPE and think situational awareness.
R – Response – pinch the child’s trapezius while asking them to open their eyes..
S – Shout/Send for help – what is the number to call in your hospital?
A – Airway – open it and look for obstructions
B – Breathing – 2 rescue breaths
C – Compressions – 2:15 ratio with breaths, rate 100-120/min, depth 1/3 of the chest. N.B the two thumb technique is recommended in the current guidelines
D – Défibrillation – 4js/kg, manual defib if you have one, AED with attenuated leads next best, standard AED if no alternative.
The team from Princess Margaret in Perth have made this excellent video of what it ought to look like. Enjoy.
If you want to be able to run a calmer resuscitation come and listen to Tim Horeczko of the Pediatric Emergency Playbook at DFTB17
okay