What term describes the drawing in of muscles during inspiration?

The term that describes the drawing in of muscles during inspiration is retraction. This phenomenon typically occurs when there is increased effort required for breathing, often seen in conditions where there is airway obstruction or respiratory distress. During normal breathing, the chest expands as the diaphragm contracts and the intercostal muscles work to increase the thoracic cavity’s volume. However, when the respiratory muscles are overworked or when airflow is impaired, additional muscles may become active, leading to the visible sinking in of the chest wall, especially around the collarbones and ribcage.

Retractions indicate that a child is struggling to breathe, and recognizing this sign is critical for prompt assessment and intervention in pediatric emergencies. When assessing a patient, observing the presence or absence of retractions can help healthcare providers gauge the severity of the respiratory issue and tailor appropriate treatments.