Pediatric

Children can deteriorate before a blood pressure, oxygen saturation, or complete history is available. The Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT) provides a rapid first impression in approximately 10–15 seconds and requires no equipment. The nurse observes the child before allowing a lengthy history or examination to delay recognition of danger. PAT answers, “Does this child appear well, at risk, or critically ill?” It does not identify the diagnosis or replace a primary assessment. It functions like an alarm: it signals the urgency of the situation, but further assessment is needed to locate and treat the cause. The three domains are Appearance, Work of Breathing, and Circulation. Count the domains that are abnormal; do not count individual signs as though each were a separate PAT component.