ST. GEORGE, Utah – A St. George toddler faced life-threatening conditions on her second birthday after contracting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19.
The Urgent Health Emergency
Mother Taryn Bennion noticed Penelope exhibited mild symptoms initially, only to worsen rapidly. “I saw her struggling hard to breathe, grunting a lot, and her nostrils were flaring,” Bennion recounted.
The Quest for Amplified Medical Care
Despite visiting two clinics, Penelope’s conditions escalated, compelling her parents to St. George Regional Hospital. There, Dr. Money, a pediatric hospitalist, indicated a shortage of specialized pediatric intubation equipment.
“It is kind of concerning just knowing that the equipment isn’t here,” Bennion elaborated. “If it had been any worse, if it had affected her sooner, or if I didn’t catch it in time, then it’s a very real possibility that she could’ve died.”
The Transfer to Primary Children’s Hospital
Penelope was subsequently transferred to Primary Children’s Hospital in Lehi after hospital staff determined St. George Regional Hospital’s full capacity for pediatric patients struggling with viruses like RSV, flu, and COVID-19.
“We were told, ‘Well, we don’t have any beds in Salt Lake, but we have six beds available in Lehi,’” explained Bennion.
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Managing Hospital Overflow
Dr. Nathan Money addressed the overflow in children’s hospitals, stating they don’t turn away patients. “The hospitals are incredibly busy right now,” he stated. “When we hit our room capacity, we can share rooms with children having the same viruses or transfer them to different units within the same hospital.”
Specialized Pediatric Care Challenges
Penelope’s journey also highlighted another critical barrier. “Many hospitals with pediatric units do not have pediatric intensivists present, who are required for intensive care such as using a ventilator or inserting a breathing tube,” Dr. Money shared.
Penelope’s Recovery
Fortunately, Penelope spent two and a half days intubated and is now convalescing at home.
Protecting Your Children
Dr. Money provided crucial advice. “Seek medical help if a child exhibits rapid, heavy, and sustained breathing. Teach children to cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands often, drink fluids, avoid contact with sick individuals, and stay indoors if sick.”
Conclusion
This case underscores the complex and demanding landscape of pediatric care in the current health climate. It also emphasizes the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard children’s health.
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