The Impact of Training and Experience on EMS Providers' Feelings Toward Pediatric Emergencies in a Rural State

Abstract

Level of EMT and hours of CE influence the level of comfort felt by EMTs when confronting a pediatric emergency. Specific CE requirements for topics in pediatric emergency medicine should be considered for all EMTs.

Withholding or Termination of Resuscitation in Pediatric Out-of-Hospital Traumatic Cardiopulmonary Arrest

“…107,108 Increased training and information is desired by EMS providers 109 and seems to mitigate the discomfort in some settings. 26,29,109,110 There are no US studies of the needs of families of children at the scene of the death, although it is the time of the most tremendous shock and the time when EMS providers have the unique opportunity to positively affect the lives of the survivors forever. Most existing advice regarding the needs of families affected by the sudden, unexpected death of a child is based on extrapolations from the hospital setting or on anecdotal evidence.…”

Continuing Medical Education for Air Medical Providers

“…[2][3][4] This is highlighted by the fact that children represent only 10% to 13% of all EMS transports, and EMS providers have lower confidence with children relative to adults. 5,6 In addition, children who are brought to an emergency department by EMS providers are more likely to be admitted, require critical care services, or die in the emergency department than those transported by other means. 3 The combination of the limited availability of pediatric continuing education (CE) and pediatric specialty transport teams leads to a large number of critically ill children being transported by EMS providers with limited pediatric knowledge and skills.…”

Family Centered Practice During Pediatric Death in an Out of Hospital Setting

“…Incorporating these new approaches to practice has been found to enhance the care that seasoned EMS providers gave to patients and families. [15][16][17] A 2006 joint policy statement between the AAP and ACEP sought to address particular challenges in providing PFCC in emergency departments (ED). 3 These challenges included overcrowding and acuity, lack of a previous relationship between the patient/family and health care providers, cultural variations among families, visits related to abuse or violence, the need for time-sensitive invasive procedures, including resuscitation efforts, and the unanticipated death of a child.…”