Intubation in children presenting with seizures to a pediatric emergency department in a safety net hospital - Report - MDSpire

Intubation in children presenting with seizures to a pediatric emergency department in a safety net hospital

  • By

  • Mugdha Mohanty

  • Zakir Shaikh

  • Hovra Zahoor

  • Shivangi Kataria

  • N. Paul Rosman

  • Alcy R. Torres

  • May 4, 2026

  • 0 min

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Tracheal Intubation in Pediatric Patients with Seizures in a Safety Net Emergency Department

Overview

Revise to specify that 42% of intubations were for airway protection and 46% for respiratory failure, ensuring clarity.

Background

Seizures are a prevalent neurological disorder in children, with significant implications for emergency care. Prolonged seizures can lead to severe complications, including respiratory failure, necessitating interventions such as tracheal intubation. Understanding the factors associated with TI in this population is crucial for optimizing management strategies in emergency settings.

Data Highlights

CharacteristicIntubated Patients (n=26)Non-Intubated Patients (n=30)
Complex Febrile Seizures27%-
Intubation for Airway Protection42%-
Intubation for Respiratory Failure46%-
Seizure Duration (p-value)p = 0.036-
Poly-drug Therapy Requirement (p-value)p < 0.001-

Key Findings

Condense findings to avoid overlap with data highlights, focusing on unique insights.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should be vigilant in monitoring pediatric patients with prolonged seizures, as they may require tracheal intubation for airway protection or respiratory failure. Understanding the indications for intubation can help in making timely and appropriate clinical decisions.

Conclusion

This study highlights the critical factors leading to tracheal intubation in pediatric patients with seizures, emphasizing the need for careful assessment and management in emergency settings.

References

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  5. NICE, NICE, 2025 -- Treating status epilepticus, repeated or cluster seizures, and prolonged seizures
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  7. 7 Treating status epilepticus, repeated or cluster seizures, and prolonged seizures | Epilepsies in children, young people and adults | Guidance | NICE
  8. Efficacy, safety, route of administration of midazolam and diazepam for pediatric status epilepticus: systematic review, meta-analysis, and trial sequential analysis | Pediatric Research

Original Source(s)

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