Leads
Michael Dingeldein, MD
Aaron Jensen, MD, MEd, MS
Pediatric Readiness Field Program
The American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma (ACSCOT) is hosting a Pediatric Readiness webinar series for Regional ACSCOT Chairs, Vice Chairs, and Regional Pediatric Champions. Slides and discussion summaries are publicly posted.
A 2022 report highlights gaps in trauma care systems for children and introduces a novel scoring system, the Pediatric Trauma System Assessment Score.
More children die of injury each year than from all other causes combined. Most traumatic injuries are treated in emergency departments (EDs) that may not have the specialized resources or expertise needed to treat acutely injured children. Pediatric trauma centers do have these resources, but 43 percent of children in the United States live more than 30 miles from one.
The Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) aims to provide resources and support to help all trauma centers optimize pediatric trauma care. Research has shown that high levels of Pediatric Readiness, or taking foundational steps to prepare for children's health needs, are associated with as much as 60% reduced mortality in injured children.
Tools & Resources
Pediatric Readiness is now incorporated into ACS trauma center verification standards.
View resources, presentations, and more from the Trauma Improvement Sprint as part of the PECC Workforce Development Collaborative, designed to support trauma centers in meeting pediatric standards.
Access pediatric imaging guidelines, hemorrhagic shock management with massive transfusion protocol, podcasts, simulation resources, and more.
RESOURCES
Explore resources and information specific to trauma center-based clinicians.