An 18 month old female with pneumonia and positive blood culture becomes acutely hypoxic and tachypneic. What equipment should be requested at the bedside?

In the described scenario, the 18-month-old patient with pneumonia and a positive blood culture is experiencing acute hypoxia and tachypnea, which suggests a potential for respiratory distress that may require immediate intervention. Among the equipment options available, the request for a large bore needle and chest tube setup is the most appropriate in this context, particularly because it addresses the possibility of a pleural effusion or tension pneumothorax, which can occur with pneumonia and can lead to rapid deterioration in a pediatric patient.

When pneumonia is present, complications such as empyema (infected pleural fluid) or a pneumothorax can lead to significant respiratory distress. The use of a large bore needle can facilitate decompressing the pleural space, while a chest tube setup allows for more effective drainage if fluid accumulation is confirmed. This intervention could rapidly improve oxygenation and alleviate respiratory distress.

In comparison, while endotracheal tubes are essential for airway management in cases of severe distress, their immediate application may be unnecessary if the primary issue is fluid accumulation in the thoracic space or if non-invasive measures can be employed first. Infusion pumps and cardiac monitors may be important for ongoing monitoring and medication administration but do not directly address the acute issue of hypoxia