Age-adjusted shock index: From injury to arrival.

BACKGROUND

Studies have demonstrated the superiority of the shock index, pediatric age-adjusted (SIPA) in predicting outcomes in pediatric blunt trauma patients. However, all have utilized SIPA calculated on emergency department (ED) arrival. We sought to evaluate the utility of SIPA at the trauma scene and describe changes in SIPA from the trauma scene to the ED.

METHODS

We used 2014-2016 Trauma Quality Improvement Program Data to identify blunt trauma patients 1-15 years old with an injury severity score (ISS) > 15. We calculated SIPA using vitals obtained at the trauma scene and on ED arrival. Outcome measures included ISS, transfusion within 24 h, intensive care unit (ICU), hospital length of stay (LOS), ventilator days, and mortality.

RESULTS

We identified 2917 patients, and 34.2% had a persistently elevated SI from the injury scene to ED arrival, whereas 17.9% had a persistently elevated SIPA. An elevated SIPA at the trauma scene was more predictive of greater ISS, LOS, and ventilator requirements. Furthermore, a SIPA that remained abnormal was associated with greater ISS, LOS, ICU admission, mechanical ventilation, and mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Prehospital SIPA values predict worse outcomes in pediatric trauma patients, and their change over time may have greater predictive utility than a single value alone.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II TYPE OF STUDY: Prognosis Study.