Implementation of a Regional Pediatric Trauma Center

ABSTRACT Today's hospitals face unique challenges in the treatment of pediatric trauma patients. With the advent of more sophisticated regional trauma systems, there is a growing awareness that children are not “little adults,” but are a special component of the trauma patient population. As few communities can provide pediatric health care facilities committed to trauma care, regional pediatric trauma centers need to be developed and implemented so hospitals can provide pediatric trauma patients with comprehensive and age-appropriate care. This article describes the steps taken by the Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, to develop a regional pediatric trauma center according to the guidelines set forth by the American College of Surgeons committee on trauma. AORN Journal 61 (March 1995) 558–571.