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Accidental asphyxia due to closing of a motor vehicle power window
R G Branco1, D Broomfield, V Rampon
1Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Hospital São Lucas, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil. brancori@terra.com.br
Insights
Child motor vehicle power window injuries are rising. This case report details a child
Area of Science:
- Pediatric safety
- Automotive safety technology
- Injury epidemiology
Background:
- Increasing rates of child injuries and fatalities in unattended vehicles.
- Motor vehicle power windows pose a significant risk, particularly to children under six.
Observation:
- A case report of a child experiencing asphyxiation due to a closing motor vehicle power window.
- The child required rapid resuscitation and made a full recovery.
Findings:
- Power window-related injuries are a serious concern for child safety in vehicles.
- The case highlights the potential for severe harm from seemingly minor vehicle features.
Implications:
- Need for enhanced awareness and preventive strategies regarding child supervision in vehicles.
- Potential for improved automotive safety features to mitigate power window risks for children.
Abstract:
Injuries and deaths among children left unattended in motor vehicles are frequent and the rates are increasing. Injuries associated with motor vehicle power windows usually affect children, in particular children under 6 years of age. This case report is about a child who was asphyxiated because of a motor vehicle power window closing. She was rapidly resuscitated and recovered fully. A brief review of the literature, epidemiology, and preventive measures to avoid this type of injury is also presented.
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