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  • Strategy 3: Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT)

    • [PDF infographic and/or interactive infographic for this section]

      Rapid Pediatric Assessment via Telehealth
      Use the Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT) + Camera Guidance

      Step 1: Appearance
      Get a full-body view
      Look for:

      • Muscle tone
      • Activity level
      • Alertness
      • Eye contact/gaze
      • Crying or speaking ability

      Step 2: Work of Breathing
      Focus on head, neck, and chest
      Look and ask about:

      • Visible effort (retractions, grunting)
      • Noisy breathing
      • Respiratory rate
      • Airway status
      • Ask: “What do breath sounds reveal?”

      Step 3: Circulation to Skin
      Check arms, legs, and face
      Signs to assess:

      • Capillary refill
      • Skin color (mottling, cyanosis)
      • Temperature of extremities

      Camera Guidance Tips

      • Direct the provider to adjust angle, zoom, and lighting
      • Request views of specific body regions as needed
      • Balance privacy with urgency—patient care comes first