Author(s)/Presenter(s)
Rich Wisniewski, BS, NRP; Karen Moore, BA, NREMT; Kevin Polley, MD; Amanda Felder, MSN, BSN, RN; Laura Strickland, MBA, BSN, RN
Abstract/Description
Nationwide, adult patients are transported based on the capabilities of each facility. Trauma patients are no different. However, pediatric trauma patient transport patterns seem to be to the closest trauma center instead of the closest appropriate care center. This results in lengthy delays in transferring patients to the pediatric trauma centers (PTC), increased cost for the patients and families, and potential worsening conditions up to and including death. At least two cases were identified to be potentially preventable pediatric deaths. After attempting to address this situation on a local EMS level, it was advised that change would need to come as a state requirement. As a result, the state EMS and Trauma office enlisted a multiagency, multidisciplinary working group to draft a mandatory statewide Pediatric Trauma Transport Protocol.