Improving outcomes in pediatric trauma care: essential characteristics of the trauma center.

The best outcome after pediatric injury can be anticipated when the entire trauma team is prepared, knowledgeable, and appreciative of the unique aspects of pediatric trauma and pays strict attention to all aspects of the care of the injured child. Five aspects should be considered essential elements in the delivery of care by any trauma team: preparation, equipment, and training; prevention of secondary insults after brain injury; the ability to recognize when nonoperative therapy should not be attempted or when it should be abandoned; consideration of the psychological impact of injury on a child; and, the role of trauma centers in injury prevention. Each of these areas encompasses important unanswered questions.