Algorithm Notes
Initial Impression
The initial impression consists of what you immediately notice by visualization and auditory processing as you first see the patient. There are three primary components that should become second nature as you form your initial impression.
The components of the initial impression are:
| IMPRESSION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Consciousness |
Level of consciousness: Is the child irritable, alert or unresponsive? |
| Breathing |
Is there evidence of increased work of breathing indicated by use of accessory muscles or abnormal breathing sounds? Is the pattern of breathing abnormal? Is the child gasping? You should also observe decreased respiratory effort, which can be an ominous sign. Obviously, absence of respiratory effort requires immediate intervention. |
| Color |
Abnormal skin color is an indicator of circulatory compromise, represented by cyanosis, skin pallor, or mottled skin. |
Your Initial impression consists of recognition of any life-threatening problem and subsequent action immediately taken in the form of appropriate interventions:
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Purchase course for all Systematic Approach Algorithm notes.
