Pediatric Trauma
What is Pediatric Trauma?
Physical trauma refers to a sudden event that results in serious and life-threatening injuries to a child’s body, such as head or spinal trauma. It typically leads to secondary complications that need immediate medical attention.
A psychological trauma results from an event with an overwhelming amount of stress that seriously impacts a child’s emotional and mental wellbeing.
What are the different types of Pediatric Trauma?
There are two types of trauma – physical and psychological (mental). They are often the result of a sudden, serious or life-threatening injury.
What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Trauma?
Physical Trauma
Symptoms of physical trauma vary depending on the cause of the event and effect on the body. In addition to the physical impacts like broken bones, cuts and internal organ damage, other symptoms include:
Shock (sudden drop in blood flow through the body)
Respiratory failure (not enough oxygen to support your organs)
Psychological Trauma
Some of the common symptoms are listed below, but can vary widely depending on the child, age and the event.
Birth to 3 years:
Aggressive or sexualized behavior
Decrease in play, exploration or mood
Developmental regression or language delay
Easily startled
Eating or sleep disturbances
General fearfulness or new fears
Irritable or difficult to soothe
Repetitive or post-traumatic play
Separation anxiety
Sleep disturbances
Talking about the traumatic event and reacting to triggers
3 years and above:
Anxious or clingy
Avoids contact
Developmental delays
Distracted or difficulty with problem solving
General fearfulness or new fears
Irritability, or aggressive or sexualized behavior
Physical symptoms (headache, inability to sleep, etc.)
Poor peer relationships and social problems (controlling/over permissive)
Repetitive or post-traumatic play
Restless, impulsive or hyperactive
Sadness, depression or self-destructive choices
What are the causes of Pediatric Trauma?
Pediatric Trauma Doctors and Providers
