ASSESSING THE OUTCOMES OF PREHOSPITAL CARE FOR PEDIATRIC PATIENTS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

This comprehensive review evaluates the outcomes of prehospital care for pediatric patients, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by emergency medical services (EMS) when managing acutely ill or injured children. Despite representing a small percentage of EMS calls, pediatric patients often present complex medical needs, particularly in trauma cases, which account for nearly 45% of pediatric EMS responses. The review synthesizes findings from various studies to assess current interventions and their effectiveness, highlighting significant variability in the care provided. Key issues identified include inadequate documentation of vital signs, infrequent use of advanced life support techniques, and the challenges of non-transport decisions. The study underscores the necessity for enhanced training for EMS personnel, improved protocols tailored to pediatric care, and the implementation of evidence-based practices. Recommendations for future research and policy shifts are proposed to improve service delivery and health outcomes for pediatric patients. By addressing existing gaps in training and intervention strategies, this review aims to inform stakeholders and improve the quality of prehospital care for children. Keywords: Pediatric Emergency Medical Services, Prehospital Care, Trauma Management, EMS Interventions, Patient Outcomes