What respiratory pattern is commonly seen in a child with epiglottitis?

The respiratory pattern commonly observed in a child with epiglottitis includes tachypnea and intercostal retractions. This condition is typically characterized by inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, which can obstruct the airway. As a result, children may exhibit rapid breathing (tachypnea) as the body tries to compensate for the reduced airflow.

Additionally, intercostal retractions occur when the chest muscles are utilized more intensely to assist in breathing, indicating increased work of breathing. This physical sign signifies that the child is struggling to breathe effectively due to the airway obstruction caused by the epiglottitis.

The presence of tachypnea and intercostal retractions in this context is an important clinical indicator, and recognizing this pattern can assist healthcare providers in identifying epiglottitis and ensuring prompt intervention to secure the airway. Other patterns or changes in breathing would not show these specific signs that are directly tied to the physiological responses to airway obstruction seen in epiglottitis.