All-Hazard Disaster Preparedness

This tool was designed to complement and augment existing disaster resources, both pediatric-specific and general, rather than to serve solely as a stand-alone document. The relative importance assigned to any given consideration is unique to each facility based on their specific risk assessments.

This Topic Brief addresses the need for pediatric surge planning and provides information for facilities converting from a standard operating capacity to a pediatric surge capacity.

Disaster preparedness for children has made great strides in recent years, but challenges remain. In 2015, hospitals only met 21% of the recommendations outlined in the National Commission on Children and Disasters 2010 report, and in 2013, the National Pediatric Readiness Project assessment found that only 47% of emergency departments have disaster plans that address children.

These documents identify critical supplies required for response to common hazards. Covering medical supplies, supplies for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and pediatric departments, and pharmacy requirements, this resource is designed to serve as a reference for pediatric hospitals in disaster preparedness and readiness efforts. It is not intended to serve as comprehensive critical supply lists for day to day operations.