Final answer:
The ominous sign of impending cardiopulmonary arrest in infants and children can include a combination of symptoms such as temperature instability, apnea, bradycardia, hypotension, difficulty feeding, irritability, and limpness. It is important for parents to be aware of these signs and seek medical help if they notice any of these symptoms in their infants.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ominous sign of impending cardiopulmonary arrest in infants and children can include a combination of symptoms such as temperature instability, apnea (cessation of breathing), bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypotension, difficulty feeding, irritability, and limpness. In addition, symptoms of late-onset disease may include seizures, bulging fontanel (soft spot), stiff neck, hemiparesis (weakness on one side of the body), and opisthotonos (rigid body with arched back and head thrown backward).
In the case of cardiac arrest, it occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to the inability of vital organs to function properly. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.
Sleep apnea, which affects both adults and infants, can also be a potential sign. Infant sleep apnea refers to repeated breath cessation during sleep, which can be very dangerous if it lasts for more than 20 seconds. It is important for parents to be aware of these signs and seek medical help if they notice any of these symptoms in their infants.