Clear the fog: the challenges of altered mental status in children

Abstract

EMS is dispatched to a residence for an "unresponsive child." On arrival, a frantic mother is waiting at the door and directs the crew to the living room. EMS providers find an 8-year-old male who's only responsive to deep pain. While one paramedic assesses the patient, their partner obtains a history from the mother. The mother states her child was complaining of a headache for the past week, and says it worsened earlier today. He's an otherwise healthy child. A full primary survey reveals that airway breathing and circulation (ABCs) are intact. The patient's vital signs are a heart rate of 60, respiratory rate of 8, blood pressure of 160/120 and oxygen saturation of 90%. An IV is established, and a glucose check is administered, revealing a blood sugar of 95. The patient will only respond to deep, sternal rub.