Abdominal and genitourinary trauma in children

Abstract

Children, especially multitrauma victims, are at significant risk for abdominal and GU trauma. Frequently, external indicators of trauma to these systems may be subtle or nonspecific. Expert assessment skills and a knowledge of potential injuries are required. Nonoperative management of these injuries is frequently the treatment of choice, requiring the nurse to understand the type of injury sustained, as well as potential complications of the injury. The nurse is often the first to detect subtle signs of deterioration in the child's condition and must be able to intervene appropriately to promote optimal outcomes for the child. The families of children who sustain abdominal or GU trauma have special teaching needs related to inhospital or home management, as well as long-term outcomes of the injury. It is the responsibility of the nurse to identify and address these needs in a timely fashion to promote optimal outcomes as well as appropriate development for the child.