Pediatric Cardiovascular Health

Fetal to Pediatric Transition The cardiovascular system begins developing by postconceptual day 17. Fetal circulation relies on shunts—the foramen ovale (atria connection) and ductus arteriosus (pulmonary artery to aorta connection)—to bypass the lungs, as oxygenation occurs via the placenta. Post-birth, these shunts close. Pediatric vitals differ significantly from adults: infants have higher heart rates (90–160 bpm) and lower blood pressure, both of which normalize toward adult levels by adolescence.

Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) CHD constitutes the largest percentage of birth defects. Defects are categorized by their effect on blood flow:

• Increased Pulmonary Flow: Includes Atrial Septal Defe ...