This module addresses the unique challenges prehospital professionals face when responding to a disaster or mass-casualty incident (MCI) where children are involved.
When children are involved in a disaster, their treatment presents unique challenges because of their special anatomic, physiologic, psychologic, and transportation needs.
There are limited data on the types and frequencies of children's injuries and illnesses during disasters, and additionally there are limited national guidelines on disaster triage, treatment, and transport of children. However, in such uncommon circumstances, chaos and an overwhelmed operating system are common, so planning and preparation are imperative.
Hence, all prehospital professionals must have a basic understanding of the unique pediatric issues in disasters, and EMS agencies must possess a thorough, well-rehearsed disaster response plan that addresses children.
After completing this course, the practitioner will be able to:
Define disaster and mass-casualty incident.
Discuss the modifications required by prehospital professionals in caring for children during disasters and mass-casualty incidents.
Recognize the anatomic, physiologic, and psychologic features specific to children that increase their vulnerability and place them at special risk when disasters occur.
Differentiate the unique effects that chemical, biologic, radiologic, nuclear, and explosive (CBRNE) events may have on children.
Discuss pediatric issues related to the assessment and management of specific types of toxic exposures.
Practitioners who successfully complete Children in Disasters (BLS Edition) course are eligible for 0.5 hours of continuing education
