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In the high-stakes world of pre-hospital care, every second counts. Although children account for just 10% of EMS calls nationwide, they require specialized equipment and care due to their unique anatomical and physiological needs.¹ Despite the uncommon nature of pediatric emergencies, data reveals that many EMS departments are not fully equipped or trained to deliver the best possible care for these patients.²

A national survey of over 7,000 pre-hospital agencies completed by the Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) Branch of the Health Resources Services Administration found that the average pediatric readiness score is just 62 percent.³

As a result, many EMS providers have reported a lack of confidence when treating pediatric patients. This unease often stems from a lack of familiarity with protocols and medication dosages as well as insufficient training and exposure in the field.

Prominent gaps in readiness not only affect the immediate care children receive but can also impact their long-term outcomes. Addressing these gaps is not just a matter of improving protocols or metrics—it’s a matter of saving lives.

Insufficient Readiness Among U.S. EMS Agencies

Despite the known benefits of pediatric readiness in emergency care, many EMS departments are falling short. Initial EMS provider certification requirements vary, but many programs combine pediatrics into a “special populations” domain.⁴ Moreover, specialized pediatric training is often limited and not reinforced by simulations or clinical practice.⁴

These shortcomings in education, along with a low volume of pediatric patients, result in low confidence for EMS providers when treating an ill or injured child.^4,5

A lack of standardization across the country magnifies this gap. While some states have made strides to improve EMS pediatric readiness, others have yet to implement comprehensive training or equipment upgrades. This disparity means that, in some areas, children may not receive the level of timely and appropriate care they need.

These findings underscore the pressing need for nationwide improvement in pediatric readiness. By addressing these gaps, we can ensure that every child receives the high-quality pre-hospital care they deserve, regardless of where they live.

A Lack of Preparedness Can Be Deadly

The consequences of insufficient pediatric readiness can be severe. Related studies focused on the ED show that children are four times more likely to die in hospital emergency rooms with the lowest pediatric readiness scores.⁶ While similar data for pre-hospital settings is still emerging, the principles are clear: well-prepared EMS teams can make a life-saving difference.

However, without the appropriate training and equipment, responders may struggle to provide the specialized care that children need.^2,4,7

Conversely, adult EDs that meet established standards for a “high” rate of pediatric readiness witness a 76% lower mortality rate in ill children and a 60% lower mortality rate in injured children.⁸ While data specific to the EMS setting is still scarce, these figures should be eye-opening and drive decision-makers to implement changes that improve pediatric readiness.

Pediatric patients are not “little adults,” and their needs during emergency care vary dramatically depending on their age and size. Children’s vital signs and responses to treatment also differ markedly from those of adults, making accurate assessment and intervention crucial.⁹ Without specialized training to recognize key signs of distress and equipment appropriate for the specific anatomical needs of pediatric patients, providers cannot deliver the best possible care in the heat of the moment.

Taking Action to Improve Pediatric EMS Readiness

Advocacy plays an essential role in boosting pediatric readiness for EMS agencies. As such, current recommendations from the EMSC include having a pediatric emergency care coordinator (PECC) on staff.^3,5 This individual can work with one or multiple agencies and is responsible for continued pediatric education, implementing quality improvement (QI) projects, and enhancing the availability of pediatric-specific supplies. A systematic literature review showed that EMS agencies with a PECC demonstrated “Improved documentation, clinical management, and staff awareness of high-priority pediatric areas.”³

Improving pediatric readiness should be a priority for all EMS agencies. Doing so acknowledges the unique needs of our youngest patients and begins with obtaining the specialized training and equipment needed to care for them in emergent situations.

For EMS providers, having the right tools on hand is as essential as training. LifeFlow stands ready to be a key partner in enhancing pediatric readiness for EMS agencies nationwide. Effective treatment for shock, dehydration, and severe blood loss relies on quickly replenishing blood or fluid volume.⁹ In pediatric emergencies, where smaller patients are more vulnerable to the effects of fluid loss, quickly initiating care is even more critical.

The handheld LifeFlow PLUS rapid infuser is an innovative piece of equipment that can significantly enhance pediatric readiness in pre-hospital settings. Designed for rapid blood and fluid resuscitation, LifeFlow PLUS enables EMS teams to quickly and accurately deliver boluses and blood products in 10 mL increments.

LifeFlow PLUS is easy to set up and can be operated with one hand, making it ideal for EMS teams working in the cramped confines of an ambulance or helicopter. LifeFlow PLUS also features a patented Force Reducer that enables rapid infusions through small-gauge IV access.

Every step towards improved pediatric readiness is valuable. Through continued investment in training and equipment, we can transform pediatric emergency management in the field. Ultimately, improving readiness is key to saving lives and delivering more effective care for one of our most vulnerable populations.

To learn more about the National Pediatric Readiness Project and discover resources to help improve readiness, visit the EMSC Innovation and Improvement Center at: https://emscimprovement.center/domains/pediatric-readiness-project/.