Paediatric trauma--the care of Anthony

Trauma causes more than 50% of the deaths in children under the age of 16 years. The leading cause is road traffic accidents with children being involved as passengers, pedestrians or bicycle riders (Brown et al 1993). When a paediatric trauma patient arrives in the Accident and Emergency department it is usually met with trepidation and anxiety. The care of the paediatric trauma victim follows the same protocols and procedures as with an adult. The primary survey consists of airway with cervical spine control, breathing, circulation with haemorrhage control, disability and exposure. The secondary survey consists of a head-to-toe examination. There are certain differences between children and adults, and children should never be considered as little adults. This article covers the primary survey and highlights the essential differences between adult and paediatric trauma care.