Pediatric perioperative life support

Abstract

Pediatric advanced life support training and guidelines are typically designed for first-responders and out-of-hospital resuscitation. Guidelines and scenarios that are more applicable to the perioperative environment would be beneficial for anesthesiologists. The goal of this article is to review resuscitation of pediatric patients during the perioperative period. We use a format that focuses on preresuscitation preparation, resuscitation techniques, and postresuscitation management in the perioperative period. In an effort to provide information of maximum benefit to anesthesiologists, we include common pediatric perioperative arrest scenarios with detailed description of their management. We also provide a section on postresuscitation management and review the techniques for maintaining the child's hemodynamic and metabolic stability. Finally, 3 appendices are included: an example of an intraoperative arrest record that provides feedback for interventions; a table of key medications for pediatric perioperative resuscitation; and a review of defibrillator use and simulation exercises to promote effective defibrillation.