NU581 Unit 1 and 3 Seminar

NU581 Unit 1 and 3 Seminar

Student Name

Purdue University Global

NU581 FNP II Clinical – Children and Adolescent Health Focus

Prof. Name:

Date

NU581 Unit 1 and 3 Seminar

Pediatric eye, ear, nose, throat (EENT), and respiratory infections are among the most common health concerns in children, especially those attending daycare, school, or living with siblings. Most children experience approximately five to six EENT and respiratory infections each year. While many of these illnesses are mild and resolve within one to two weeks, recognizing warning signs such as wheezing, stridor, retractions, and decreased activity is essential for early identification of complications and appropriate treatment.

Pediatric EENT and Respiratory Infections: Key Facts

Children are more susceptible to infections because their immune systems are still developing and they are frequently exposed to viruses and bacteria in social settings. Uncomplicated EENT and respiratory infections typically last up to two weeks and often present with overlapping symptoms, making diagnosis challenging.

Common symptoms include:

• Runny nose

• Sore throat

• Red eyes

• Cough

• Fever

• Hoarseness

Symptoms that may indicate complications include:

• Increased respiratory rate

• Chest retractions

• Severe or persistent coughing

• Reduced activity level

• Wheezing

• Stridor (high-pitched breathing sounds)

Parents and healthcare providers should seek further evaluation when children develop these warning signs, particularly if symptoms worsen or breathing becomes difficult.

Common Pediatric EENT Conditions

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis is one of the most frequently encountered eye conditions in children. It can be classified into three main types:

• Bacterial conjunctivitis

• Viral conjunctivitis

• Allergic conjunctivitis

Although redness, irritation, and discomfort are common to all forms, the nature of eye discharge can help distinguish between them. Bacterial conjunctivitis often produces thick, purulent discharge and is commonly treated with topical antibiotics. Viral conjunctivitis usually presents with watery discharge, while allergic conjunctivitis is associated with itching and exposure to allergens.

Chalazion and Hordeolum

A hordeolum (stye) is an acute infection or inflammation involving the glands or hair follicles of the eyelid. It is typically painful, red, and tender.

A chalazion, in contrast, is a chronic inflammatory lesion that presents as a firm, painless, and non-tender nodule on the eyelid. While many cases resolve spontaneously, persistent lesions may require medical evaluation.

Corneal Abrasion

A corneal abrasion refers to a scratch or scrape on the surface of the cornea. Children may present with eye pain, tearing, redness, and sensitivity to light. Prompt assessment is important to prevent complications and ensure appropriate management.

Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Children

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are among the leading causes of pediatric healthcare visits.

Common Cold

The common cold affects children of all ages and is caused by various viruses. Symptoms may include nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, and low-grade fever. Most cases resolve within 7–10 days with supportive care.

Influenza

Influenza viruses are categorized into four types:

• Influenza A

• Influenza B

• Influenza C

• Influenza D

Influenza A is responsible for seasonal epidemics and global pandemics. Influenza B causes seasonal illness but is not associated with pandemics. Influenza C generally causes mild disease, while Influenza D primarily affects cattle and does not infect humans.

Roseola (Sixth Disease)

Roseola is a common viral illness caused primarily by Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6). It is characterized by a high fever followed by the sudden appearance of a pink rash as the fever subsides. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets and most commonly affects infants and young children.

Erythema Infectiosum (Fifth Disease)

Erythema infectiosum, caused by Parvovirus B19, is recognized by its characteristic “slapped cheek” rash. The illness is generally mild and self-limiting in healthy children.

Pityriasis Rosea

Pityriasis rosea is a self-limited skin condition that often begins with a single herald patch followed by a widespread rash on the trunk. The exact cause remains unclear but may be associated with viral infections.

Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis

Pharyngitis refers to inflammation of the throat, whereas tonsillitis involves inflammation of the tonsils. These conditions may result from viral or bacterial infections and commonly present with:

• Sore throat

• Fever

• Difficulty swallowing

• Enlarged tonsils

• Cervical lymphadenopathy

Infectious Mononucleosis

Infectious mononucleosis is most commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is prevalent among adolescents and young adults and may present with fatigue, sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

Sinusitis and Rhinosinusitis

Sinusitis involves inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, while rhinosinusitis affects both the nasal passages and sinuses. Persistent nasal congestion, facial pain, and prolonged symptoms beyond 10 days may suggest these conditions.

Pertussis

Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing spells and can be particularly dangerous in infants.

Croup

Croup is a viral illness that causes inflammation of the upper airway, resulting in a distinctive barking cough and hoarseness. Symptoms often worsen at night and may be accompanied by stridor.

Epiglottitis

Epiglottitis is a potentially life-threatening condition involving inflammation of the epiglottis. Children may present with drooling, difficulty swallowing, and respiratory distress, requiring immediate medical attention.

Otitis and Tympanic Membrane Conditions

Acute Otitis Media

Acute otitis media (AOM) is one of the most common pediatric infections. It is frequently caused by:

• Streptococcus pneumoniae

• Haemophilus influenzae

• Staphylococcus aureus

• Viral pathogens

Children typically experience:

• Ear pain (otalgia)

• Fever

• Irritability

• Headache

• Difficulty sleeping

Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications and recurrent infections.

Lower Respiratory Tract Infections in Children

Lower respiratory tract infections affect the airways below the larynx and may be associated with more significant respiratory symptoms.

Bronchitis and Bronchiolitis

Bronchitis and bronchiolitis often begin as upper respiratory infections before progressing to involve the chest. Both are commonly caused by viruses.

Bronchiolitis is especially common in infants and may present with:

• Wheezing

• Increased work of breathing

• Feeding difficulties

• Tachypnea

Pediatric Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs and can be classified as:

• Primary pneumonia

• Secondary pneumonia

• Community-acquired pneumonia

• Hospital-acquired pneumonia

Symptoms may include fever, cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Severe cases may require hospitalization.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways and a leading cause of pediatric emergency visits worldwide. Common symptoms include recurrent wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Identifying triggers and adhering to prescribed treatment plans are essential for long-term disease management.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Children should be evaluated promptly if they experience:

• Persistent high fever

• Difficulty breathing

• Wheezing or stridor

• Chest retractions

• Lethargy or decreased activity

• Signs of dehydration

• Symptoms lasting longer than two weeks

Early recognition and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.

References

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2024). HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Influenza (flu). https://www.cdc.gov/flu

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Pink eye (conjunctivitis). https://www.cdc.gov/conjunctivitis

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Pertussis (whooping cough). https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis

NU581 Unit 1 and 3 Seminar

Kliegman, R. M., St. Geme, J. W., Blum, N. J., Shah, S. S., & Tasker, R. C. (2024). Nelson textbook of pediatrics (22nd ed.). Elsevier.

Merck Manual Professional Edition. (2025). Pediatric respiratory disorders. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/pediatrics

Murray, P. R., Rosenthal, K. S., & Pfaller, M. A. (2023). Medical microbiology (10th ed.). Elsevier.

World Health Organization. (2025). Respiratory tract infections in children. https://www.who.int