Pediatric clinics of North America
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Trauma is prevalent in the lives of children. It derives from many sources, and, depending on its characteristics, can produce transient or enduring and devastating consequences. Early trauma, if left untreated, can set the stage for chronic deficits in the behavioral repertoires of affected children, and thus shape personality development. ⋯ Health care providers must anticipate potential strain upon family relationships and financial resources. Parent's posttraumatic stress symptoms may result in deterioration of their own ability to support their injured child. And finally, reassessment of patient and family members should occur within the first days, at 1 to 2 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year following injury to ensure proper recovery and optimization of psychosocial function.
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This article provided many situations in which the pediatrician may cross paths (if not swords) with members of the legal profession. It is extremely rare for the doctor to avoid some aspect of the law for an entire career. ⋯ They may look to pediatricians for guidance in difficult cases in which children must be protected. By comprehensively reviewing all documents provided, preparing well, and, most importantly, remaining scrupulously honest throughout the process, a pediatrician has the opportunity to serve the system well, assist children and their families, and even, perhaps, make the system a bit better.