AAP publishes in-office readiness recommendations for pediatric emergencies

The American Academy of Pediatrics released updated guidance on preparing for emergencies in pediatric healthcare settings.

In the policy statement, published in Pediatrics, investigators detailed that while rare, pediatric emergencies such as respiratory distress, seizures, allergic reactions and psychiatric or behavioral emergencies require planning and immediate care for positive clinical outcomes. However, prior findings have uncovered a lack of standardized communication strategies and inadequate staff confidence in carrying out emergency procedures. As a result, the investigators offered a checklist to help healthcare providers evaluate their emergency preparedness.

In a companion technical report, the investigators urged clinicians working in pediatric care settings to take advance measures to ensure that they’re equipped to provide optimal care. Healthcare providers were advised to consider the types of emergencies the practice’s patients may experience, make emergency resources and equipment readily available, keep medical supplies stocked, conduct structured preparedness reviews annually, establish emergency protocols, train healthcare personnel to recognize and respond to emergencies, and collaborate with other medical and dental professionals when extra assistance is needed.

Read more: Pediatrics

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