MedPage Today November 14, 2023
— The situation has improved but more can be done
Children experiencing a medical emergency should have access to high-quality care that meets their distinct needs, no matter where they live. Every clinician shares this goal — emergency physicians, nurses, pediatricians, and surgeons alike.
Despite notable improvements over the last decade, systemic gaps remain in pediatric emergency care, especially for children in rural and underserved areas. Clinicians and advocates have been calling attention to the issue for years and have been working toward a solution: pediatric readiness.
Acutely ill and injured children need a unique, pediatric-specific approach. They are not simply “tiny adults.” In fact, research shows that taking steps to prepare for children’s unique health needs in emergency departments...