Longitudinal care needs in children treated for child physical abuse
Topic overview
Retrospective study of 401 child physical abuse victims at a Level I pediatric trauma center demonstrates 88% compliance with first-year follow-up appointments, with complex injuries requiring extended multidisciplinary care. Children in CPS custody showed higher compliance rates, highlighting the need for coordinated post-discharge care protocols.
Key takeaways
- 88% of child physical abuse victims complied with recommended follow-up visits in the first year post-discharge.
- Children with complex injuries from abuse required significantly longer care duration (58% still in care at 1 year vs. 14%).
- Patients discharged to CPS custody showed higher follow-up compliance (90% vs. 82%, p=0.03).
- 95% of CPA patients required multiple specialty service appointments, highlighting need for care coordination resources.
- CPA management guidelines should include mechanisms for longitudinal care coordination beyond initial hospitalization.
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