Credits Hours: 1.00

Course Description:
As a result of advances in medical care and technology, many children with life-threatening illnesses and injuries -- as well as those born with serious problems -- survive. Years ago, children with special healthcare needs often were cared for in institutions or spent the majority of their lives in a hospital. Today, most of these children are cared for at home and attend schools in their communities. As these children experience routine childhood illnesses and injuries, EMS professionals will become involved with them, their families, and their caregivers. This course defines the term "children with special healthcare needs" and discusses assessment parameters and management techniques related to airway management for children with various disabilities.

Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this online activity, the participant will be able to:

• Define the term "children with special health care needs."
• Discuss at least two airway assessment techniques related to children with the following disabilities:
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Cleft lip and/or cleft palate
  • Muscular dystrophy
  • Spina bifida
  • Down syndrome
• Choose from a list at least two airway management techniques related to children with the following disabilities:
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Cleft lip and/or cleft palate
  • Muscular dystrophy
  • Spina bifida
  • Down syndrome
• Discuss at least two airway assessment and management techniques for the child with cyanotic heart disease