Principles for the Treatment of Children with Respiratory Distress

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Abstract
Taking as starting point the case history of a two-month-old boy, the therapeutic possibilities which are available for the treatment of respiratory depression of various aetiology in children are described. If the conservative regime comprising treatment with medicaments, oxygen-alevaire, fluid, and pulmonary physiotherapy is insufficient, intubation with thorough aspiration of secretions, and possibly delivery of air containing a high percentage of oxygen is recommended. In cases of longer duration it is recommended that tracheotomy, possibly supplemented with intermittent positive pressure respiration, either manual or mechanical, be carried out. The advantages and drawbacks of the treatment are mentioned. Intermittent positive pressure ventilation is considered to be a “survival therapy” by means of which time can be gained to make it possible to fight the underlying disease with more specific therapy.