Impact of an Extraglottic Device on Pediatric Airway Management in an Urban Prehospital System.

Introduction: Prehospital pediatric endotracheal intubation has lower first-pass success rates compared to adult intubations and in general may not offer a survival benefit. Increasingly, emergency medical services (EMS) systems are deploying prehospital extraglottic airways (EGA) for primary pediatric airway management, yet little is known about their efficacy. We evaluated the impact of a pediatric prehospital airway management protocol change, inclusive of EGAs, on airway management and patient outcomes in children in cardiac arrest or respiratory failure.

Determinants of Pediatric EMS Utilization in Children with High-Acuity Conditions.

Background: Underutilization of emergency medical services (EMS) for children with high-acuity conditions is poorly understood. Our objective was to identify differences in demographic factors and describe caregivers' knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes regarding EMS utilization for children with high-acuity conditions.

Design/methods: This was a mixed-methods study of children with high acuity conditions, defined as requiring immediate medical or surgical intervention and intensive care admission, over a one year period.

Improving Prehospital Protocol Adherence Using Bundled Educational Interventions.

Background: Seizures and anaphylaxis are life-threatening conditions that require immediate treatment in the prehospital setting. There is variation in treatment of pediatric prehospital patients for both anaphylaxis and seizures. This educational study was done to improve compliance with pediatric prehospital protocols, educate prehospital providers and decrease variation in care.

Impact of High-Fidelity Pediatric Simulation on Paramedic Seizure Management.

Background: A simulation-based course, Pediatric Simulation Training for Emergency Prehospital Providers (PediSTEPPs), was developed to optimize pediatric prehospital care. Seizures are common in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and no studies have evaluated pediatric outcomes after EMS simulation training.

Objectives: The primary objective was to determine if PediSTEPPs enhances seizure protocol adherence in blood glucose measurement and midazolam administration for seizing children.