Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 21, 2026

An Educational Video Demonstration of How to Prone a Critically Ill Intubated Patient
07:16

An Educational Video Demonstration of How to Prone a Critically Ill Intubated Patient

Published on: November 30, 2022

Triage of mechanical ventilation for pediatric patients during a pandemic

Kristin M Kim1, Sandro Cinti, Steven Gay

  • 1University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA. kmkim@umn.edu

Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness
|June 16, 2012
PubMed

Insights

A new pediatric ventilator triage protocol is proposed using the Pediatric Logistic Organ Dysfunction (PELOD) scoring system. This system is crucial for managing critical care resources during severe influenza pandemics.

Area of Science:

  • Critical Care Medicine
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Severe influenza pandemics, like H1N1, raise concerns about critical care and mechanical ventilator resource limitations.
  • Existing triage protocols for ventilator access often overlook the unique needs of pediatric populations.
  • The necessity for a dedicated pediatric triage strategy is evident.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate pediatric critical care prognosis and multisystem organ failure scoring systems for pandemic ventilator triage.
  • To identify the most appropriate scoring system for a pediatric-specific ventilator triage protocol.
  • To propose a pediatric ventilator triage protocol to supplement existing adult guidelines.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review of the pediatric critical care literature was conducted.
  • Searches included databases like MEDLINE and EMBASE for relevant scoring systems (e.g., PELOD, PRISM III).
  • Five independently derived scoring systems were evaluated for suitability in a pandemic triage context.

Main Results:

  • Twenty-two out of 69 reviewed papers were utilized in the analysis.
  • The Pediatric Logistic Organ Dysfunction (PELOD) scoring system emerged as the most suitable for the proposed triage protocol.
  • The PELOD score demonstrated appropriateness for stratifying pediatric patients in a pandemic scenario.

Conclusions:

  • A pediatric-specific ventilator triage protocol, utilizing the PELOD scoring system, is presented.
  • This protocol aims to complement existing adult triage strategies, such as the NY State protocol.
  • Further research and evaluation of pediatric scoring systems are essential for effective pandemic preparedness.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings01:29

Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings

Mechanical ventilation is a life-saving technique for managing acute respiratory failure and other respiratory complications. The process involves using a machine known as a ventilator to supply oxygen to the lungs and assist in removing carbon dioxide. It serves as a bridge to long-term mechanical ventilation or a temporary measure until ventilatory support is discontinued. The ventilator can maintain this function for a prolonged period, providing critical support for patients until they can...
Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation01:23

Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation

Ventilators are essential medical equipment used to aid patients with respiratory difficulties. Their primary function is to assist or replace spontaneous breathing by providing mechanical ventilation. There are two general classes of mechanical ventilators: negative-pressure and positive-pressure ventilators.
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...
Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation01:23

Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation

Noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation (NIPPV), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), and bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) are essential methods in respiratory care. These ventilation techniques offer unique benefits for patients with various respiratory conditions, providing adequate support without requiring intubation. Let's explore how each method is crucial in improving patient outcomes and enhancing respiratory therapy.
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV)
Acute Respiratory Failure-V01:29

Acute Respiratory Failure-V

The treatment for acute respiratory failure varies based on factors like the underlying cause, overall health, and severity. A collaborative healthcare team is essential for early detection, often through arterial blood gas analysis. Identifying the cause is the primary goal, with treatment strategies adjusted for ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) mismatch, shunting, or diffusion impairment.
Ensure that patients are monitored continuously for their response to therapy, including changes in...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management01:22

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management

Airway management is a key skill in emergency and critical care settings, as maintaining a clear airway is essential for adequate oxygenation and ventilation.Head Tilt-Chin Lift TechniqueThe head tilt-chin lift maneuver is an essential technique primarily used in patients without suspected cervical spine injuries. To perform this maneuver, one hand is placed on the patient’s forehead, and gentle pressure is applied backward to tilt the head. The fingertips of the other hand are positioned under...
Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate01:20

Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate

Assessment of Ventilation
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation: