It’s important to understand that children aren’t simply miniature adults. Their anatomy and physiology are different, as is the way their bodies react to physical trauma.

Our team of emergency specialists at Madison Memorial have spent hundreds of hours training for anyone who might, at any time of day or night, pass through the doors of our ER. We have to be able to work together, in a well-coordinated way, in order to identify injuries and stabilize a child.

According to the CDC, approximately 12,000 children and young adults under the age of 19 die each year from unintentional injuries. Whenever a serious or life-threatening injury is present, the things that happen within the first hour of treatment can be critical.

In Idaho, fully one-fourth of all pediatric trauma cases are caused by motor vehicle accidents. Firearm injuries are also substantial contributors, with boys being five times more likely to be injured by guns than girls. Falling from high places is also a substantial risk, along with bicycle and skateboard accidents and drowning.

Each of us needs to do our part to keep our children safe. And it’s great to know that the Emergency Department at Madison Memorial stands open and ready, every day of the year, to provide top-notch, professional care to each and every child and youth who has the misfortune of suffering from an unforeseen traumatic injury.