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Signs of Respiratory Distress: |
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• Look for the signs of respiratory distress, which include:
• Nasal flaring: the nostrils open wide during inhalation.
• Tracheal tugging: the Adam's apple is pulled upward during inhalation.
• Retraction of intercostals muscles (those between the ribs) during inhalation.
• Use of the diaphragm and neck muscles to assist in inhalation.
• Use of the abdominal muscles during exhalation.
• Cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes).
• And Hands grasping at the throat & Neck (classic)
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Performing a Cricothyrotomy |
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Cricothyrotomy consists of the insertion of a knife through the cricothyroid membrane. A horizontal incision of less than one-half inch is usually performed. The handle of the knife is inserted into the incision and rotated 90" to maintain the patency of the opening, but it is usually necessary to insert a tubular device such as a small leg, 4 mm internal diameter) endotracheal tube or metal cannula. This may be attached to a bag-valve or other such device for providing positive-pressure ventilation with high oxygen concentrations. This should only be performed by a trained & qualified person. |
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