Are We Prepared to Care for the Children? An Assessment of Pediatric-Specific Pre-Deployment Training Provided by Non-Governmental Organizations Operating in Disaster Zones

• 2025

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• Lea Ohana-Sarna-Cahan; Derrick Tin; Jamla Rizek; Debra Weiner; Gregory Ciottone
PMID: 39985893DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajem.2025.02.018

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This study examines how well non-governmental organizations (NGOs) prepare their staff to care for children in disaster zones. It found that most NGOs do not provide specific training for pediatric care before deployment. Only one NGO required basic life support and child welfare training. The study highlights the need for better, standardized training focused on children's needs during crises, as they are more vulnerable to harm. It suggests collaboration between NGOs and experts to improve care for children affected by disasters like the 2023 Turkey-Syria earthquake.

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Tags

Focus Area: Natural Disasters

Audiences: Emergency Managers; Physicians; Public Health Professionals

Emergency Management Stage: Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Child Welfare; Disaster Planning; Earthquakes; Emergency Medical Services; Pediatrics; Training Support

Institutions: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Hadassah University Medical System; Harvard Medical School; Boston Children's Hospital

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