The purpose of the Caring for Children During Disasters: Decontamination educational module is to provide education and resources that can assist providers in identifying the needs of pediatric patients before, during, and after decontamination. This course is designed to build on existing knowledge regarding general decontamination procedures and outline specific pediatric components that should be incorporated into an organization’s decontamination plans in order to address the of children. A number of topics will be discussed including:

• Risk Factors
• Safety and Security
• Children with Special Health Care Needs/Children with Functional and Access Needs
• Communication
• Prevention of Injury
• EMS Needs and Challenges
• Assistive Devices and Service Animals

It is our hope that pre-hospital and hospital professionals utilize these materials to further enhance the care of children before, during, and after disasters.

This educational activity is being presented without the provision of commercial support and without bias or conflict of interest from the course planners. 

This course has been approved for 0.5 continuing education hours.
Continuing education hours have been approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health Division of Emergency Medical Services and Highway Safety.

Course Expiration: May 14, 2024