Common Mistakes in PALS and How to Avoid Them

Precision and efficiency are very important in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) as they ensure the best outcomes for critically ill or injured children. However, even experienced practitioners can make mistakes that can impact the effectiveness of care. Common errors in PALS can range from misassessing the condition of the pediatric patient to improper use of resuscitation techniques.

Understanding these common mistakes and knowing how to avoid them is essential for delivering high-quality care and improving patient outcomes. Pediatric healthcare must be careful in this matter. This guide will explore some of the most frequent pitfalls in PALS and provide practical tips to help healthcare professionals navigate these challenges with confidence and competence.

Mistake 1: Incorrect Assessment of the Pediatric Patient

One of the mistakes that pediatric healthcare can make is misjudging the condition. Misjudging a pediatric patient’s condition causes delays and mistakes in treatment, putting their health at risk. It’s important to thoroughly check vital signs, how responsive the child is, and the severity of their symptoms. Missing or misinterpreting these signs can lead to the wrong diagnosis or treatment. To avoid this, always follow a clear assessment process and ensure every detail is carefully examined to give the best care possible.

Mistake 2: Delayed Administration of Medications

Giving medications late during an emergency can seriously affect a child’s chances of recovery. Quick delivery of the right medications is crucial, especially in cases like cardiac arrest or severe allergic reactions. Delays often happen because of unfamiliarity with medication protocols or slow processes. To help the child effectively, it is important to follow established guidelines of pediatric care and ensure that medication is given on time.

Mistake 3: Improper Use of Resuscitation Equipment

Another mistake is the improper use of resuscitation techniques. Using resuscitation equipment incorrectly can significantly impact the effectiveness of PALS. This includes issues like improper placement of the defibrillator pads or incorrect use of airway devices. To prevent these mistakes, make sure that all team members are thoroughly trained on how to use the equipment correctly and take the time to review the guidelines regularly. Remember, knowing your equipment inside and out can make all the difference during an emergency. It’s not just about following protocols- it’s about being confident and ready to act when it counts.

Mistake 4: Inadequate Chest Compressions

Effective chest compressions are key to saving a child’s life during resuscitation. Compressions can’t be effective if they are too shallow, fast, or slow. To get it right, push down about one-third of the chest’s depth, aim for a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, and let the chest rise fully between compressions. Practicing these techniques often and using feedback-giving tools can help you perform compressions correctly and increase the chances of survival.

Mistake 5: Failure to Follow the Pediatric Dosage Guidelines

Giving the wrong amount of medicine can be dangerous for children. The correct medication dose is very important. The medicine should be exact based on their weight and age. You can use weight-based charts to calculate the right amount and ask a review from your senior to review it with you and ensure accuracy. Always double-check your calculations and adhere to established guidelines for pediatric medication.

Mistake 6: Mismanagement of Airway and Breathing

Proper management of the airway and breathing is crucial, as mistakes like inadequate ventilation or improper placement of airway devices can seriously affect the patient’s oxygen levels. To avoid these problems, always use the correct technique when placing airway devices and giving rescue breaths. Pediatric healthcare providers must regularly review airway management protocols and practice these skills to stay proficient and ensure the best care for young patients.

Mistake 7: Lack of Team Coordination and Communication

Effective teamwork is crucial in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). A common mistake during PALS scenarios is the failure to maintain clear communication and coordination among the team. This breakdown often leads to misunderstandings, delays in administering treatment, and even errors in medical interventions. Every member of the resuscitation team must have a defined role and understand their responsibilities, and there should be a clear leader who directs the flow of communication.

Mistake 8: Ignoring Post-Resuscitation Care

Successfully resuscitating a child is just the first step. Many providers make the mistake of not focusing enough on post-resuscitation care, which is crucial to improving patient outcomes. A child may stabilize after resuscitation, but they remain at high risk for complications such as organ failure, neurological deficits, or recurrent cardiac arrest. Neglecting this stage can lead to preventable deterioration after the initial resuscitation.

Mistake 9: Insufficient Documentation and Reporting

In the rush of a PALS scenario, it’s easy to overlook accurate documentation and reporting. However, they are very important for keeping patients safe, meeting legal requirements, and improving the quality of care. Poor documentation can lead to miscommunication between healthcare providers, disrupt the flow of patient care, and make it harder to review cases for learning or quality checks. As a pediatric care worker, you need to take the time to document every procedure and treatment accurately so that everyone is on the same page and can make a big difference in patient outcomes.

How to Avoid These Mistakes

A minor mistake in such emergencies can lead to death. It’s always better to not make mistakes and provide better care. To avoid common mistakes in PALS and ensure you provide the best care, keep these tips in mind:

Thorough Assessment

Take your time carefully assessing the child’s condition using the ABCDE approach. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for identifying all potential issues.

Accurate Medication Dosages

Always double-check medication doses and calculations. Use weight-based guidelines and verify dosages with a colleague if you’re unsure.

Proper Chest Compressions

Your compressions should be in-depth and rate—about 1/3 the chest depth at 100-120 compressions per minute. Practice regularly to keep your technique sharp.

Effective Ventilation

Use the correct breathing techniques. Ensure you’re delivering the right volume and timing, and consider advanced airway options if needed.

Continuous Reassessment

Regularly check the child’s condition and response to your interventions. Based on their response, adjust your actions as needed.

Clear Team Communication

You need to maintain open and effective communication with your team to avoid team failures. It’s better if everyone knows their roles and responsibilities to avoid confusion and ensure coordinated efforts.

Conclusion

In PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support), even small mistakes can have significant consequences. By being aware of common errors—such as poor communication, incorrect drug dosages, or neglecting post-resuscitation care, you can greatly improve the chances of a positive outcome in pediatric emergencies. Continuous practice, staying up-to-date with the latest guidelines, and refining your skills are very important to avoid these things.

To deepen your understanding and sharpen your skills, consider enrolling in our PALS classes. Our PALS classes in San Francisco offer hands-on training, expert guidance, and the latest insights to help you avoid these common pitfalls and confidently manage pediatric emergencies. If you want to be the best in your job, don’t just be prepared—be confident, knowledgeable, and ready to make a difference when it matters most. Join us today!