Alden ER1
1 American Academy of Pediatrics, Elk Grove Village, Illinois, USA
Objective: This session will help create awareness of the needs of children in disasters and increase healthcare professionals’ ability to respond when emergencies occur.
Discussion: Disasters, both natural and manmade, have irreversible physical and mental health consequences for children. These crises impact child development, and healthcare providers need to take responsibility for helping those in need. The American Academy of Pediatrics, International Pediatric Association and Johnson & Johnson Pediatric Institute are partnering to implement a global training initiative for the ongoing care of children and families in the face of disasters. The speakers in this session include those who have been involved in that initiative and those who have experienced disasters firsthand. They will discuss the nature of crises in their countries, the long-term impact on psychosocial parameters and the elements of the program that have been developed to address the needs of children in complex humanitarian emergencies.
Conclusion: Because of the psychological and physiological trauma suffered by children in disaster situations, appropriate care by trained individuals is essential at that critical time. By working together, this program can provide the care needed by children, both mentally and physically, during and immediately following disasters.