Injuries in children and general principles of management

Abstract

Traumatic injuries and accidents are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide, with traffic accidents causing the majority of deaths due to trauma. When possible, children with injuries should be cared for at a dedicated trauma center, as outcomes have been shown to improve with the care of a specialized trauma team. General principles of management include a systematic, step by step approach beginning with the Pediatric Assessment Triangle. Once providers have performed a primary survey and stabilized the patient, more detailed secondary and tertiary surveys should be conducted. Specific treatments will vary depending on the nature of the injury. Public health initiatives in primary prevention to reduce the incidence of traumatic injuries and prevent injuries before they occur are also crucial.