Faculty Bibliography

Although the principles of pediatric decontamination are similar as those for adults, the actual practice is much more challenging. The unique needs and vulnerabilities of children will require health care personnel to be sensitive to developmental stages of the victims and physiological hazards during decontamination. Unless medically indicated, families should undergo decontamination together. This article provides an overview of the need for decontamination and the process of decontamination for hospitals. Practical guidance on decontamination methods for children of different ages is presented. Recommendations for training and communication during decontamination are also reviewed

In recent years, attention has been given to disaster preparedness for first responders and first receivers (hospitals). One such focus involves the decontamination of individuals who have fallen victim to a chemical agent from an attack or an accident involving hazardous materials. Children often are overlooked in disaster planning. Children are vulnerable and have specific medical and psychological requirements. There is a need to develop specific protocols to address pediatric patients who require decontamination at the entrance of hospital emergency departments. Currently, there are no published resources that meet this need. An expert panel convened by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene developed policies and procedures for the decontamination of pediatric patients. The panel was comprised of experts from a variety of medical and psychosocial areas. Using an iterative process, the panel created guidelines that were approved by the stakeholders and are presented in this paper. These guidelines must be utilized, studied, and modified to increase the likelihood that they will work during an emergency situation