Characteristics and Outcomes of Pediatric Rapid Response With a Respiratory Trigger

Hosp Pediatr. 2021 Aug;11(8):806-807. doi: 10.1542/hpeds.2020-004630. Epub 2021 Jul 9.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Authors of adult rapid response (RRT) studies have established that RRT triggers play an important role in outcomes, but this association is not studied in pediatrics. In this study, we explore the characteristics and outcomes of pediatric rapid response with a respiratory trigger (Resp-RRT). We hypothesize that outcomes differ on the basis of patients' primary diagnoses at the time of Resp-RRT.

Methods: We conducted a 2-year retrospective observational study at an academic tertiary care pediatric hospital.

Results: Among the 1287 Resp-RRTs in 1060 patients, those with a respiratory diagnosis (N = 686) were younger, less likely to have complex chronic conditions, and less likely to have concurrent triggers (P < .01) than those with a nonrespiratory diagnosis (N = 601). Patients with a respiratory diagnosis were more likely to receive noninvasive ventilation, less likely to receive vasoactive support, and had lower 30-day mortality (P < .01). Among those with a respiratory diagnosis, the 541 patients with acute illness were younger, less likely to have complex chronic conditions, and less likely to receive vasoactive support than those with acute on chronic illness (N = 100) (P < .01).

Conclusions: Among pediatric respiratory-triggered RRT events, patients with a respiratory diagnosis were more likely to receive acute respiratory support in ICU but have better long-term outcomes. Presence of complex chronic conditions increases risk of acute respiratory support and mortality. The interplay of primary diagnosis with RRT trigger can potentially inform resource needs and outcomes for pediatric Resp-RRTs.

Publication types

  • Observational Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Child
  • Hospital Rapid Response Team*
  • Humans
  • Pediatrics*
  • Retrospective Studies