When assessing for stridor in a child, what should you observe for?

Observing for difficulty breathing in a calm child is crucial when assessing for stridor. Stridor is a high-pitched respiratory sound resulting from disrupted airflow in the upper airway, and it often indicates an obstruction or narrowing. While a child may exhibit stridor during activity or distress, it is particularly significant when noted in a calm state, as this suggests that the airway is compromised even when the child is at rest, highlighting the severity of the condition.

In contrast, a normal breathing pattern would not present with stridor, and excessive coughing does not specifically relate to stridor itself, although it may accompany respiratory distress. A child playing normally indicates that there is likely no severe respiratory obstruction or distress, making it less relevant when specifically assessing for the presence of stridor. Thus, the observation of difficulty breathing in a calm child is a critical clinical sign that warrants further evaluation and possible intervention in a pediatric patient.