Assessing outcomes in paediatric trauma populations

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Traumatology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Health Outcomes Research

Background:

• Assessing outcomes in pediatric trauma is crucial but challenging due to the lack of suitable instruments.
• Child-specific characteristics influence the development and selection of outcome measures.
• This review focuses on commonly used measures for functional status and health-related quality of life in pediatric trauma patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and review commonly used outcome measures for the pediatric trauma population.
• To discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each identified instrument.
• To provide guidance on instrument selection for assessing pediatric trauma outcomes.

Main Methods:

• An extensive electronic database search was performed.
• The search identified English language outcome measures used from 1966 to the present.
• The focus was on instruments applicable to pediatric trauma patients.

Main Results:

• Nine suitable outcome instruments were identified, including the Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ), Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS), and PedsQL 4.0.
• Each instrument presented unique advantages and disadvantages for assessing pediatric trauma outcomes.
• Specific measures like the PedsQL 4.0 and a measure by Gofin et al. were highlighted.

Conclusions:

• The PedsQL 4.0 generic core scale shows promise as a routine outcome measure for pediatric trauma.
• For very young children, an additional measure, such as the one proposed by Gofin et al., may be necessary.
• Further psychometric evaluation of these instruments is recommended for optimal use in the pediatric population.