Prehospital providers expressed confidence in their abilities to recognize and to manage cases of child abuse and neglect; however, significant deficiencies were reported in several critical knowledge areas, including identification of child maltreatment, interviewing techniques, and appropriate documentation.

No abstract

Pediatric OOHCA survival rate is low. Witnessed arrest was the most important determinant of survival. Ventricular fibrillation was an uncommon rhythm measured by emergency medical services. The majority of arrests occurred at home. The rate of bystander CPR was low. Strategies to increase the rate of bystander CPR for children, especially by family members, are needed.

Emergency medical technicians-basic were highly successful in assessing children with wheezing, serious illness, injuries, and psychologic and social conditions. Consideration should be given to expanding their scope of practice in these areas. They were less successful in assessing minor medical conditions and respiratory emergencies other than wheezing. They require additional training in these areas.