A computerized child passenger safety screening program in the emergency department.

Abstract

The emergency department (ED) can be an effective site for pediatric injury prevention initiatives, including child passenger safety. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the implementation of an ED child passenger safety program and to analyze the effectiveness of a computerized screening tool to identify car seat-related needs for children younger than 8 years. An ED-based group developed a child passenger safety program including (1) a computerized screening tool to assess the use of car seats in children younger than 8 years; (2) child passenger safety education, including state law; and (3) distribution of appropriate car seats for patients discharged from the ED. In July 2011, the screening tool was added to the initial nursing assessment. In January 2012, nursing education was performed to increase compliance with screening. In April 2012, the tool was made a mandatory field in the computerized initial nursing assessment. From August 1 to December 31, 2011, 17 % (2270/13,637) of eligible children had computerized screenings performed; 18 car seats were distributed. From January 15 to March 15, 2012, 32% (2017/6270) of eligible children were screened; 9 car seats were distributed. From March 16 to May 19, 2012, 56% (3381/6063) were screened; 22 car seats were distributed. Screenings increased further from May 20 to July 25, 2012, with 87% (5077/5827) completed; 31 car seats were distributed. A child passenger safety program can be successfully implemented in the ED. A computerized nursing screening tool increases compliance with screening and providing needed car seats.