Question

A child in cardiac arrest experiences return of spontaneous circulation but is exhibiting signs of post-cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS). The PALS resuscitation team determines that the child is experiencing a systemic response to ischemia/reperfusion. The team bases this determination on which finding(s)?

Select all correct options that apply.
A. Seizures
B. Hypoglycemia
C. Fever
D. Hypotension
E. Hyperglycemia

Answer 1

The PALS team identifies post-cardiac arrest syndrome in a child by observing symptoms of systemic inflammation and myocardial dysfunction, specifically fever, hypotension, and hyperglycemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) resuscitation team may determine that a child experiencing post-cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS) after return of spontaneous circulation is showing systemic responses to ischemia/reperfusion based on several findings. This can include C. Fever, D. Hypotension, and E. Hyperglycemia. PCAS involves a series of complex pathophysiological processes, including systemic inflammation, brain injury, and myocardial dysfunction, which can lead to these symptoms. Fever can result from the inflammatory response, hypotension may be due to myocardial dysfunction or vasodilation, and hyperglycemia may arise due to the stress response.