Research Article
Ann-Charlotte Falk and Vero
Abstract
Trauma is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children and adolescents and approximately one third of the injuries are due to a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The impact of prehospital care on the outcome of patients with a TBI has been investigated and it shows a positive impact on better neurological outcome however there are limited research concerning the pediatric patient. Therefore the aim of this study was to describe prehospital care in children with a severe traumatic brain injury. Methods: Retrospective review of prehospital medical records. Results: Most children, 94 percent were brought to the emergency department by ground ambulance due to a severe brain injury. Prehospital interventions were found in one third of the children. Children<7 years received less intervention as compared to older children. The most common prehospital intervention was controlled airway/ endotracheal intubation. Conclusion: Despite a severe brain injury only one third of the children received a prehospital intervention (controlled airway, pain treatment and IV fluid treatment) during the prehospital care. The initial severity of injury showed no impact on the frequencies of interventions.