Priorities in managing pediatric emergencies.

The accidents and infections which cause the majority of pediatric emergencies are characteristically sudden in onset and often complicated by rapid deterioration. The immediate objective, as with any age group, is to preserve life by providing a patent airway, effective breathing, and adequate circulation; however, in managing a pediatric emergency, the ABCs of resuscitation are not enough. Anticipation and intervention are also needed to identify and treat the child's special needs and potential complications. These requirements are size dependent, age related and disease specific. The management of serious respiratory illnesses, infections and convulsions is discussed.