Neiva

Pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome (PARDS) is a serious condition leading to admission and death in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs). Researchers are studying how living at different geographic altitudes and the availability of critical care resources affect outcomes for children with PARDS. This study collects data from PICUs worldwide at various altitudes to better understand how these factors influence the course of the illness and to identify areas needing improvement in care. Participants are grouped based on the altitude of the PICU where they receive care: low (0-1500 m), intermediate (1501-2500 m), high (2501-3500 m), and very high (>3500 m). The study does not involve any treatment intervention. Instead, it collects clinical, physiological, and hospital resource data both prospectively and retrospectively to evaluate how altitude and resource availability relate to oxygenation, ventilation, and patient outcomes. Children admitted to PICUs who meet study criteria will have their demographic and clinical information recorded. Researchers will monitor outcomes including in-hospital mortality from PICU admission until hospital discharge, up to 90 days. The data collected aims to support development of guidelines adapted to different settings worldwide, improving pediatric critical care practices and reducing care disparities.