Journal article
Pediatric emergency disaster preparedness: a narrative review of global disparities, challenges, and policy solutions
International journal of emergency medicine, v 18(1), 91
06 May 2025
PMID: 40329186
Featured in Collection : UN Sustainable Development Goals @ Drexel
Abstract
BackgroundDisasters, whether natural or man-made, pose significant challenges to healthcare systems, with children being among the most vulnerable populations. Pediatric Emergency Departments (PEDs) require specialized protocols to address children's distinct physiological, psychological, and developmental needs in other to respond adequately to disasters. While international guidelines for disaster preparedness exist, significant disparities persist across different healthcare settings, particularly in low-resource regions where preparedness measures remain inadequate. This review examines the current state of pediatric disaster preparedness, analyzing insights from past disasters to highlight key challenges, gaps, and opportunities for improvement. Special attention is given to global frameworks, existing protocols, and how lessons from successful disaster responses can inform future strategies, particularly in resource-limited settings.AimsThis review aims to assess the readiness of PEDs for disaster scenarios by identifying deficiencies and proposing strategies to enhance preparedness. It explores infrastructure requirements, workforce training, triage protocols, and mental health considerations specific to pediatric populations. Additionally, it assesses international frameworks and best practices to inform policy recommendations for strengthening pediatric-focused disaster response globally.ConclusionPediatric disaster preparedness remains inadequate across global healthcare systems, particularly in resource-limited settings. While international protocols exist, their implementation varies widely, leaving gaps in staff training, resource allocation, and mental health support. Addressing these gaps requires a multi-faceted approach that includes enhanced training programs, improved resource allocation, and integration of mental health services into disaster protocols. By adopting evidence-based strategies and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, healthcare systems can develop more resilient and child-focused emergency response frameworks. Strengthening disaster preparedness in PEDs is essential to ensuring equal opportunities for care and effective treatment for children in times of crisis.
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Details
- Title
- Pediatric emergency disaster preparedness: a narrative review of global disparities, challenges, and policy solutions
- Creators
- Chibuike Daniel Onyejesi - Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching HospitalMohamed Alsabri - College Station Medical CenterJose Carlos Del Castillo MirandaMayam Mohamed Aziz - Menoufia UniversityMuskaan Doulat Ram - Dow University of Health SciencesEslam Moumen Abady - Tanta UniversitySohaila Mohamed Abdelbar - Cairo University
- Publication Details
- International journal of emergency medicine, v 18(1), 91
- Publisher
- Springer Nature
- Number of pages
- 11
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- College of Medicine
- Web of Science ID
- WOS:001482921900001
- Scopus ID
- 2-s2.0-105004359947
- Other Identifier
- 991022197332304721
UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
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Source: SDGs in the Output
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- Collaboration types
- Domestic collaboration
- International collaboration
- Web of Science research areas
- Emergency Medicine