Related Experiment Videos
Pediatric emergencies on a US-based commercial airline
Brian R Moore1, Jennifer M Ping, David W Claypool
1Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. moore.brian@mayo.edu
Pediatric Emergency Care
|November 11, 2005
Summary
Pediatric emergencies on flights are common, primarily involving infectious diseases, neurological, and respiratory issues. Current medical kits need more pediatric medications to improve care during air travel.
Area of Science:
- Aviation Medicine
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Pediatric emergencies can occur during commercial air travel.
- Assessing the frequency and nature of these events is crucial for preparedness.
- Evaluating the adequacy of in-flight medical resources for children is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and characteristics of pediatric medical emergencies on a US commercial airline.
- To evaluate the contents and utility of current in-flight emergency medical kits for pediatric cases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective observational review of an institutional database.
- Analysis of in-flight consultations for passengers under 18 years old from 1995-2002.
- Categorization of emergencies, medical kit usage, and flight diversions.
Main Results:
- 222 pediatric consultations identified (1 per 20,775 flights).
- Most common emergencies: infectious disease (27%), neurological (15%), respiratory tract (13%).
- 11% of consultations led to flight diversions, often due to neurological or respiratory issues.
Conclusions:
- In-flight pediatric emergencies frequently involve infectious diseases, neurological, and respiratory conditions.
- Current emergency medical kits lack sufficient pediatric-specific medications.
- Recommendations include augmenting kits with pediatric medications to enhance in-flight care.