Signs of Respiratory Distress

You often hear from clinicians to monitor for signs of respiratory distress when your child is sick, but it can be hard to know what to look for!

Important signs of respiratory distress include:

✅ Increased work of breathing. This can present with retractions where you see pulling under the ribs (subcostal), between the ribs (intercostal), below the breastbone (substernal), or above the breastbone (suprasternal). It can also present with nasal flaring, as seen in this reel, or the head bobbing with each breath.
✅Changes in skin color, such as a bluish tint around the lips or fingertips which is a sign of decreased oxygen levels. If noted, you need to call 911 or seek medical attention immediately.
✅ Behavioral changes, like lethargy or persistent irritability, accompanied by distress.
✅Rapid breathing, where a child is breathing significiantly faster than normal.

It can be scary to see your child struggling to breathe but remember to stay calm. They're likely already feeling scared and will look to you for reassurance as they get the medical care they need.👩🏽‍⚕️Check out my latest YouTube video for more info on what to do if you notice respiratory distress in your child!

[travisjenniferhowell]

Great video! I was teaching what retractions were, and this was exactly what I needed. Thank you!