Safe Transportation of Children with Special Healthcare Needs

Abstract

<P>Car safety seats and seat belts are known to be effective in reducing death and serious injury and all children deserve this protection for every trip in the car. Challenges exist, however, in providing that protection for many children who have medical problems that may be either short-term or longstanding. Physicians are an important resource for assuring that their patients have access to the best restraint devices that are appropriate for their medical and positioning needs.</P> <H4>ABOUT THE AUTHOR</H4> <P>Marilyn J. Bull, MD, is with Automotive Safety Program, Section of Developmental Pediatrics, Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, Indiana.</P> <P>Address correspondence to: Marilyn J. Bull, MD, Section of Developmental Pediatrics, Riley Hospital for Children, 702 Barnhill Drive, Room 1601, Indianapolis, IN 46202; or e-mail <a href="mailto:mbull@iupui.edu">mbull@iupui.edu</a>.</P> <P>Dr. Bull has disclosed no relevant financial relationships. </P> <H4>EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES</H4> <OL> <LI>Review basic principles healthcare professionals can employ to guide parents and patients in the selection and use of appropriate vehicle restraint devices.</LI> <LI>Determine the unique requirements of children with special healthcare needs, specifically low birth-weight infants and children with chronic medical conditions.</LI> <LI>Discuss modifications that can be added to standard child restraint systems to accommodate the needs of children with special healthcare needs.</LI> </OL>