Pediatric Anesthesia – Barash Ch.43 (2025/2026) – 20+ Q&A | Airway, URTI, OSA, Laryngospasm

This document provides over 20 focused exam questions and answers from Chapter 43 of Barash’s Clinical Anesthesia, centered on Pediatric Anesthesia, and tailored to the 2025/2026 academic year. The material is ideal for students, residents, and healthcare professionals reviewing pediatric-specific airway anatomy, anesthesia considerations, and perioperative management. Key topics include the treatment of laryngospasm, features of the pediatric airway (e.g., large occiput, narrow cricoid ring, omega-shaped epiglottis), Pierre Robin sequence, and upper airway obstructions such as laryngomalacia. The document also addresses clinical decision-making around postponing surgery in children with URTIs, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) due to tonsillar hypertrophy, and allergy risks in anesthesia (e.g., latex sensitivity). Highlighted physiological concepts include: Alveolar ventilation to FRC ratio differences between children and adults Turbulent flow dynamics and the dramatic impact of airway narrowing on resistance Recognition of endobronchial intubation and risk of rapid desaturation in infants This study tool is especially useful for: Medical students in anesthesiology and pediatrics rotations Nursing students specializing in perioperative or pediatric care Anesthesia residents and fellows Healthcare professionals preparing for board exams or clinical assessments in pediatric anesthesia All answers are page-referenced from Barash and clinically grounded, offering both factual clarity and exam-aligned depth. Keywords: pediatric anesthesia, laryngospasm, infant airway, Pierre Robin sequence, laryngomalacia, URTI, OSA in children, cricoid ring, turbulent airflow, endobronchial intubation, alveolar ventilation, Barash Ch43, latex allergy, airway obstruction, FRC ratio