What should be done for pediatric patients who cannot maintain oxygen saturation despite BVM ventilation?

Upgrading to an advanced airway is the appropriate action for pediatric patients who cannot maintain oxygen saturation despite BVM (Bag-Valve-Mask) ventilation. This protocol is crucial in ensuring that the airway is secured effectively and that adequate ventilation can be provided. Pediatric patients may have anatomical and physiological differences that affect their airway management, which can complicate BVM ventilation. If effective ventilation cannot be achieved with BVM, it indicates a need for a reliable and more controlled means of ventilation, such as intubation or using a supraglottic airway device.

By securing an advanced airway, providers can ensure that oxygen can be delivered directly to the lungs and more effectively manage respiratory distress or failure in pediatric patients. This step is in line with advanced life support protocols that emphasize the importance of proper oxygenation and ventilation in critical cases, especially in vulnerable populations like children.