Overcoming barriers to pediatric intensive care in low-resource settings: an institutional experience from Northeast...

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Pediatrics
• Global Health

Background:

• Developing pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) in resource-limited regions faces challenges like limited resources, staff shortages, and lack of standardized protocols.
• Sustainable pediatric critical care services in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) require prioritizing healthcare professional training, selecting cost-effective equipment, and strong leadership.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the phased approach used to establish a PICU in a charitable hospital in northeast India.
• To highlight strategies for overcoming challenges in resource-constrained environments for pediatric critical care.

Main Methods:

• A practical, phased implementation strategy was employed in a charitable hospital setting.
• Focus was placed on adaptability, institutional commitment, team building, and systematic record-keeping.

Main Results:

• Successfully established a PICU in a resource-limited setting.
• Demonstrated the importance of adaptable strategies and dedicated teamwork in overcoming infrastructural and resource limitations.

Conclusions:

• High-quality pediatric critical care is achievable even in resource-constrained environments.
• The experience provides valuable insights for establishing similar services in LMICs, emphasizing practical, sustainable solutions.