What should you do when a 5-year-old child with a history of severe diarrhea and vomiting shows increased work of breathing?

In the scenario of a 5-year-old child exhibiting increased work of breathing after a history of severe diarrhea and vomiting, the immediate concern is primarily focused on assessing and stabilizing the child’s respiratory status. When considering the correct response, it is essential to understand that managing respiratory distress involves ensuring adequate perfusion and oxygenation.

Lowering the extremities can help improve venous return and cardiovascular stability, addressing any potential hypovolemia due to the recent dehydration from diarrhea and vomiting. This maneuver also potentially alleviates respiratory distress by enhancing blood flow and improving overall circulation, which might reduce the respiratory workload.

While reassessing the child after lowering the extremities is necessary to monitor improvements, it is crucial to note that addressing dehydration and its effects on breathing is a primary concern. In particular, children may present with signs of respiratory distress due to a combination of factors, including electrolyte imbalance, hypovolemia, and potential airway swelling from other causes that were not initially apparent.

In contrast, initiating positive-pressure ventilations or inserting a nasopharyngeal airway might be considered in cases of severe respiratory compromise, but they are more invasive measures and should be reserved for situations where the child is unable to maintain adequate ventilation independently. Listening to the lungs