Respiratory Emergencies Jessica Owen, CCRN Anatomy Anatomy Physiology Inspiration Active process Chest cavity expands Intrathoracic pressure falls Air flows in until pressure equalizes Expiration Passive process Chest cavity size decreases Intrathoracic pressure rises Air flows out until pressure equalizes Physiology Developmental Variances of a Child’s Respiratory System Developmental Variances of a Child’s Respiratory System Adequate Breathing • Normal rate and depth