Frequency of Pediatric Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Based on Oxygen Saturation Index in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of a Developing Country.

Objectives To determine the frequency of pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome based on oxygen saturation index in pediatric intensive care unit of a developing country. Methods We conducted a retrospective study of all children admitted in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi from July 2017 to June 2018 with respiratory rate >40 breaths/minute, shortness of breath, and bluish discoloration of skin and mucous membranes. The diagnosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) was made on the basis of standard operational definitions as mentioned (fulfilling criteria for ARDS).