Anja Klopčič
Klinični oddelek za intenzivno terapijo otrok, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Tina Peulić
Klinični oddelek za intenzivno terapijo otrok, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Anja Perko
Klinični oddelek za intenzivno terapijo otrok, Pediatrična klinika Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Abstract

In the everyday care of critically ill children, the main pillar of treatment is certainly the constant monitoring of vital functions with continuous monitoring and the presence of trained medical staff. This allows rapid detection of deviations from normal, timely intervention, prevention of complications, and documentation of the patient’s condition. In cases where vital functions are absent, basic and advanced resuscitation procedures are initiated. In the paediatric intensive care unit, in addition to the previously mentioned measures, advanced forms of mechanical support for the heart and circulatory system are also employed, which require the highest level of medical care. Following successful resuscitation, preventive interventions may avoid further (secondary) organ failure and improve treatment outcomes.

Key words: critically ill child, resuscitation, advanced resuscitation procedures, intensive care unit, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation