In contrast to adults, deterioration to cardiac arrest in infants and children is usually associated with:

The deterioration to cardiac arrest in infants and children is indeed typically associated with severe hypoxia and bradycardia. In pediatric populations, especially in infants and young children, the most common pathway to cardiac arrest is often related to respiratory issues leading to hypoxia. The body's response to low oxygen levels often includes bradycardia, rather than tachycardia, especially as the situation becomes critical.

Infants and children have limited physiological reserves and when they experience respiratory distress, it can quickly progress to severe hypoxia. This lack of adequate oxygen delivery to the tissues is a key factor in pediatric emergencies and can lead to the failure of the heart to maintain effective circulation, resulting in cardiac arrest.

Recognizing this early and managing airway and breathing is crucial in pediatric care to prevent the progression to cardiac arrest from severe hypoxic events. Therefore, the connection between severe hypoxia and bradycardia in children is fundamental in understanding the pediatric cardiac arrest pathway.