Developing a triage tool for paediatric care

Abstract

Most paediatric triage systems used in UK emergency departments (EDs) are adapted from adult tools. Paediatric-specific triage tools have been developed in Australia, Canada and the United States but there is no evidence of a similar tool in use in the UK despite support for its development. Staff at New Cross Hospital, in Wolverhampton, are involved in a project to develop a paediatric-specific triage tool that can be used in EDs, assessment units and walk-in centres throughout the UK. The tool has been piloted in the hospital's paediatric assessment unit already with some success, but is yet to be validated.

The impact of adult major trauma centre status on paediatric trauma activity

“…Specialised paediatric triage tools are employed at a number of emergency departments worldwide, and have already been piloted in the UK 10. At present a paediatric triage tool is being designed for the LTN and further development and implementation of this tool may reduce the impact of over triaging and the effect it has on resources; while ensuring the volume of major trauma required for trauma centre effectiveness (personal communication).…”

Application of emergency severity index in pediatric emergency department

“…In the United States, a three-level triage system is most commonly used (69%), with 12% of EDs using a four-level system, 3% using a five-level model, and 16% using no acuity system according to an ENA survey in 2001. [12][13][14][15] Children change with growth and development. The triage of children is more complicated and time-consuming than that of adults.…”