Why are children considered more prone to airway collapse?

Children are considered more prone to airway collapse primarily due to their anatomy and physiology, which differ significantly from adults. One of the key characteristics of young children is that they are obligate nasal breathers during infancy. This means that they primarily breathe through their noses rather than their mouths.

Additionally, children have a proportionally larger tongue and softer, more pliable airway structures, which can lead to a greater likelihood of airway obstruction or collapse—especially when they are in a supine position (lying on their back). The combination of a relatively larger tongue and a less rigid trachea, along with their tendency to have less mature respiratory systems, makes airway management in pediatric patients particularly challenging.

Understanding how these factors contribute to increased airway vulnerability in children is essential for EMTs and other healthcare providers to ensure effective assessment and management during emergencies.