Nursing Care of a Pediatric Patient with Acute Respiratory Failure due to Pneumonia : A Case Study

Abstract

     This study was case study aimed to study the nursing care of a pediatric patient with acute respiratory failure due to pneumonia. A case study of an 11-month-old male pediatric patient presenting with fever, cough, and respiratory distress one day prior to hospital admission. Diagnosed with pneumonia, the patient was admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit on November 4, 2023. On November 9, 2023, the patient developed high fever, respiratory distress, and required oxygen therapy, prompting transfer to the pediatric respiratory medicine unit.
     Study results: During the critical care phase, the patient exhibited oxygen desaturation and received treatment with heated humidified high flow nasal cannula (HHHFNC), antibiotic therapy, and intravenous fluid therapy. Electrolyte imbalance was corrected with appropriate medication and fluid management. The patient underwent continuous oxygen therapy with HHHFNC for four days along with physiotherapy, chest percussion, suctioning, and oxygen mask changes to reduce infection risk. Education and skill training were provided to the family for proper patient care, and the mother was particularly concerned about post-discharge care. Hence, emphasis was placed on educating the family about pneumonia prevention measures. The patient was discharged on November 16, 2023, after a total hospital stay of 12 days.