Files and links (1)
Published, Version of Record (VoR)Open Access via Drexel Libraries Read and Publish Program 2025CC BY V4.0, Open
Journal article
Why Pediatric Emergency Departments Are not Ready for Disasters
Current emergency and hospital medicine reports, v 13(1), 16
20 Jun 2025
Featured in Collection : Research Supported by Drexel Libraries' OA Programs
Abstract
Purpose
Pediatric Emergency Departments (PEDs) face significant challenges in disaster preparedness due to children’s unique physiological, developmental, and psychological vulnerabilities. Key issues include inadequate training, lack of pediatric-specific protocols, resource constraints, and communication barriers, which disproportionately affect pediatric outcomes during crises.
Methods
A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases (2014–2024). Search terms included “pediatric disaster preparedness,” “emergency departments,” “triage systems,” and “resource limitations.” Peer-reviewed articles focusing on PEDs, disaster protocols, and pediatric vulnerabilities were included.
Results
The review identified critical gaps: inconsistent pediatric triage systems (e.g., JumpSTART), shortages of age-appropriate equipment, and insufficient mental health support. Over 50% of PEDs lacked disaster plans tailored for children. Training deficiencies and reliance on adult-oriented protocols further exacerbated risks. Innovations such as telehealth, portable diagnostics, and community collaboration showed promise in bridging preparedness gaps.
Conclusion
Strengthening pediatric disaster readiness requires standardized protocols, dedicated funding, and multidisciplinary training. Integrating telehealth, stockpiling pediatric resources, and fostering global partnerships are essential to safeguard children during disasters. Policymakers must prioritize pediatric-specific strategies to enhance resilience and equity in emergency responses.
Metrics
15 Record Views
Details
- Title
- Why Pediatric Emergency Departments Are not Ready for Disasters
- Creators
- Marina Ramzy Mourid - Alexandria UniversitySalma Tamer Abdelrahman - Zagazig UniversityMayam Mohamed Aziz - Menoufia UniversityAbdelrahman Ashraf Eldosoky - Menoufia UniversityMariam Mohamed Mousa - Menoufia UniversityEbraheem A. Ebraheem - Ain Shams UniversityOlaniyi Abideen Adigun - Nigerian Defence AcademyEric Lusinski - St. Christopher's Hospital for ChildrenMohammed Alsabri (Corresponding Author) - Drexel University, College of Medicine
- Publication Details
- Current emergency and hospital medicine reports, v 13(1), 16
- Publisher
- Springer Nature
- Number of pages
- 19
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Pediatrics
- Web of Science ID
- WOS:001512025000002
- Other Identifier
- 991022058838404721
UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This publication has contributed to the advancement of the following goals:
InCites Highlights
Data related to this publication, from InCites Benchmarking & Analytics tool:
- Collaboration types
- International collaboration
- Web of Science research areas
- Emergency Medicine