CCFP 105 Topics: Croup

Written By: Chris Cochrane Expert Review By: Dr. Nabeela Waja (Paediatrician) https://thegenerehlist.ca/2021/06/06/ccfp-key-topic-croup/ Objective 1: In patients with croup, Identify the need for respiratory assistance (e.g., assess ABCs, fatigue, somnolence, paradoxical breathing, in drawing) and provide that assistance when indicated.     Objective 2: Before attributing stridor to croup, consider other possible causes (e.g., anaphylaxis, foreign body (airway or esophagus), retropharyngeal abscess, epiglottitis). Objective 3: In any patient presenting with respiratory symptoms, look specifically for the signs and symptoms that differentiate upper from lower respiratory disease (e.g., stridor vs. wheeze vs. whoop). Objective 4: In a child presenting with a clear history and physical examination compatible with mild to moderate croup, make the clinical diagnosis without further testing (e.g., do not routinely X-ray). Objective 5: In patients with a diagnosis of croup, use steroids (do not under treat mild-to-moderate cases of croup). Objective 6: In a patient presenting with croup, address parental concerns (e.g., not minimizing the symptoms and their impact on the parents), acknowledging fluctuating course of the disease, providing a plan anticipating recurrence of the symptoms.