Pediatric Patients Seen in Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Abstract

Port-au-Prince and southern Haiti were at the epicenter of a 7.0 magnitude earthquake on January 12, resulting in massive widespread destruction. About 3 million people were affected by the earthquake; the Haitian Government reported that 230 000 people had died, 300 000 were injured, and 1 000 000 made homeless, resulting from severe damage to 250 000 residences and 30 000 commercial buildings. Of the population of Haiti, 45% are in the pediatric age group and may constitute a higher proportion of those who were injured. In response to this disaster, Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital dispatched a surgical/trauma team to Port-auPrince, Haiti, on January 30. The team included 3 surgeons, 1 anesthesiologist, and 5 physicians, who were supported by a nurse anesthetist, surgical technician, emergency medical technician, and communications specialist. Medical supplies and equipment for treating earthquake victims with surgical interventions and medical conditions were sent, together with water, food, and other supplies for sustaining the team in Haiti. Humanitarian efforts were provided at a private hospital located in downtown Port-au-Prince. The hospital opened its doors for providing free care to all patients after the earthquake. We propose that the limited health care resources in Haiti must be mobilized and tailored to meet the health care needs of children.