PICU & Paediatric Critical Care

Severe respiratory distress means a child is struggling to breathe or maintain oxygen. Airway obstruction, asthma and infection are possible causes requiring immediate stabilisation.

Septic shock is a life-threatening response to infection causing failure of circulation. Children may deteriorate rapidly and need urgent intensive treatment.

Severe dehydration is substantial fluid loss, often from vomiting or diarrhoea. Abnormal body salts can also affect the heart, brain and kidneys.

Status epilepticus is a prolonged seizure or repeated seizures without recovery between them. Ongoing seizure activity can compromise breathing and is a medical emergency.

Some children need intensive observation after surgery because of the operation, their age or an existing illness. Monitoring looks for breathing problems, circulatory changes and complications.

Severe pneumonia affects lung air sacs; bronchiolitis affects small airways, usually in infants. Low oxygen, exhausting breathing effort or inability to feed may require intensive support.

Diabetic ketoacidosis results from severe insulin deficiency causing high glucose and acidic ketones. Vomiting, dehydration, deep breathing or reduced awareness may be presenting signs.

Accidental ingestion of medicines or chemicals can be dangerous before symptoms appear. The substance, amount and time of exposure guide urgent assessment.

Critically ill children may need support for several organs, such as the lungs, kidneys and circulation. Support maintains essential functions while the underlying illness is treated.

After major injury, children may need intensive monitoring for bleeding, breathing problems and neurological changes. Some complications become apparent only over time.