Paramedic National Registry Practice

In cases of bradycardia, which intervention is often performed first in infants and children?

1. Oxygen administration

2. Cardiac monitoring

3. Airway management

4. Fluids

The correct answer is: Airway management

In cases of bradycardia in infants and children, airway management is typically the first intervention performed. This is because maintaining a patent airway is crucial for ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation. Infants and children can be particularly vulnerable to respiratory issues, and bradycardia in this population is often related to hypoxia or inadequate ventilation. By ensuring that the airway is open and functional, rescues can improve the child's oxygenation, which may resolve the bradycardia without the need for further interventions. In addition, airway management may include providing supplemental oxygen as needed if there is evidence of hypoxia. Although oxygen administration, cardiac monitoring, and fluids are important components of the overall management strategy, prioritizing airway management helps address the immediate cause of the problem, particularly in the context of acute illness or respiratory distress in pediatric patients.