Pediatric Respiratory System Development and Aspiration

Presented by Hema Desai and Jennifer Raminick

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Video Runtime: 45 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 36 Minutes

This course aims to fill the knowledge gaps in pediatric dysphagia coursework by delving into the intricate relationship between pediatric lung development, anatomy and physiology of the pediatric respiratory system, and airway protective mechanisms in the context of dysphagia and aspiration. Clinicians will study the anatomical and physiological aspects of the pediatric airway, the respiratory system, and the developmental changes that occur from infancy to childhood. Clinicians taking this course will acquire a comprehensive understanding of how these factors relate to dysphagia and aspiration in pediatric patients. The goal is for clinicians to be well-prepared to assess and address the specific challenges faced by children and infants with dysphagia.

Learning Objectives
  • Identify three primary anatomical structures, musculature, and reflexes involved in respiration and airway protection in children
  • Define three risk factors for aspiration in children
  • Highlight two events leading to lung damage in children who are aspirating
  • Recognize three factors to consider during dysphagia evaluations for children at risk for aspiration
  • Recognize three consequences of aspiration when making feeding recommendations for children with dysphagia

Meet your instructors

Hema Desai

Hema Desai is an inpatient speech pathologist who has worked with infants and children with feeding and swallowing disorders since 2000. She has her board-certification specialties in swallowing and swallowing disorders (BCS-S) and neonatal touch and massage (NTMTC) and is a clinical lactation education counselor (CLEC). Hema…

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Jennifer Raminick

Jen Raminick graduated from California State University, Long Beach, and has been a speech-language pathologist at a pediatric acute care hospital for more than eight years. She has earned her board-certified specialist accreditation in swallowing and has multiple leadership roles in the hospital, including chair of the…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Respiratory System Development

1. Respiratory System Development

This chapter will define primary anatomical structures, musculature, and reflexes involved in respiration and airway protection in children.

Dysphagia and Aspiration in Children

2. Dysphagia and Aspiration in Children

In this chapter, clinicians will gain an understanding of types of aspiration and how they impact the lungs, as well as high-risk populations and risk factors for aspiration pneumonia.

Pathophysiology of Lung Damage

3. Pathophysiology of Lung Damage

In this chapter, clinicians will gain understanding of the pathophysiology of underlying lung damage resulting from aspiration and dysphagia and clinical implications for infants and children.

Factors to Consider When Evaluating for Aspiration in Children

4. Factors to Consider When Evaluating for Aspiration in Children

This chapter will help clinicians recognize consequences of aspiration when making feeding recommendations for children with dysphagia.

Management of Children With Dysphagia Who Are Aspirating

5. Management of Children With Dysphagia Who Are Aspirating

This chapter will describe clinical reasoning for the management and treatment for children with dysphagia who are aspirating.