Pediatric Airway Management

Pediatric airway emergencies present unique challenges that differ significantly from those in adult cases. This CME/CE course is specifically designed for emergency medicine and pediatric emergency medicine providers to bridge the knowledge gap in pediatric airway management. Pediatric patients have distinct anatomical and physiological characteristics that require different approaches to airway assessment and intervention. Understanding these differences is vital for healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective treatment during emergencies.

Participants in this course will explore how pediatric airway anatomy and physiology diverge from those of adults, including airway size, position, and compliance. The course also emphasizes how these distinctions influence clinical decisions, equipment choice, and procedural techniques. Treatment strategies for common pediatric airway emergencies, such as croup, epiglottitis, foreign body aspiration, and laryngospasm, will be covered in detail.

By the end of this course, providers will be equipped with the skills necessary to assess and manage pediatric airway emergencies effectively, improving outcomes and reducing complications in high-stress scenarios.

Educational Objectives

• Describe key anatomical and physiological differences between pediatric and adult airways.
• Evaluate how pediatric airway differences influence clinical management and intervention.
• Discuss evidence-based treatment options for pediatric airway emergencies, including medical and procedural strategies.

Who Should Do This Course

This course is intended for:

• Physicians
• Nurses
• Physician Assistants
• Pediatricians
• Emergency Medicine Providers
• Pediatric Emergency Medicine Specialists
• Anesthesiologists
• Critical Care Physicians

Did You Know?

• According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, airway obstruction is one of the leading causes of preventable death in pediatric emergencies.
• Infants and young children have a higher risk of airway compromise due to anatomical differences, including a relatively larger occiput and more anterior larynx.
• The rate of emergency intubation failure is significantly higher in pediatric patients compared to adults due to anatomical and physiological complexities.
• Croup accounts for nearly 15% of pediatric airway obstruction cases presenting to emergency departments annually in the U.S.