Características clínicas de neumonía en menores de 5 años de edad, ingresados en el área de observación pediátrica en el Hospital Teodoro Maldonado Carbo. Año 2020-2023.

Abstract

Pneumonia in children under 5 years of age continues to be a significant global health concern since it represents one of the main causes of infant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics of pneumonia in children under 5 years of age admitted to the pediatric observation area of the Teodoro Maldonado Carbo Hospital. Methodology: descriptive, quantitative, cross-sectional, and retrospective study. Technique: Indirect observation. Instrument: Observation form. Population: 135 children under 5 years of age. Results: The sex of the children was 68% male and 32% female. Regarding age, 61% were aged between 48 months and 59 months, followed by 33% between 24 and 48 months and 6% between 12 and 24 months. The 56% had a personal history (asthma 25%, respiratory syncytial virus 19%, prematurity 7%, cardiac disease 4%, and congenital anomalies 1%). Among the clinical manifestations, 76% presented fever, followed by 70% tachypnea, 66% respiratory distress, 64% cough, 33% dehydration, 17% wheezing and 4% chest pain. Regarding the treatment used, 85% were administered a combination of antibiotics such as ampicillin/sulbactam + oxacillin, followed by 11% ceftriaxone + oxacillin and 4% ceftriaxone. Conclusion: Distinctive clinical patterns and symptoms have been identified, highlighting the need for early detection and appropriate management to ensure the well-being of children.