Human Trafficking and Exploitation in Pediatric Acute Care: Recognition, Communication, and Response

Human trafficking and exploitation of children are recognized pediatric public health concerns. Children and adolescents who experience trafficking may present to pediatric acute care settings with injuries, sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy concerns, malnutrition, substance use, chronic pain, behavioral health crises, delayed care, or non-specific somatic symptoms. Disclosure is uncommon, and clinical recognition depends on awareness of risk factors, careful observation, trauma-informed communication, and clear response pathways. Pediatric clinicians should avoid relying on stereotypes or expecting patients to self-identify as trafficked. Instead, clinicians can use developmentally appropriate and nonjudgmental questions, ensure privacy when safe, use professional interpreters, and involve multidisciplinary partners. This article provides a practical approach for pediatric clinicians in emergency department, urgent care, hospital, inpatient settings, and outpatient clinics to recognize possible trafficking, communicate safely, avoid common pitfalls, and connect children with appropriate protection and support.