RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Disaster Planning for Pediatrics JF Respiratory Care FD American Association for Respiratory Care SP 1457 OP 1465 DO 10.4187/respcare.01405 VO 56 IS 9 A1 Richard D Branson YR 2011 UL http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/56/9/1457.abstract AB Natural and man-made disasters are inevitable and appear to be more common in the current age. Substantial time and effort have been invested and millions of dollars spent on disaster prevention and management. An important oversight in this planning has been the special needs of children. The vulnerability of children and their physiologic characteristics place them at increased risk during a disaster. Importantly, reunification with family and assurance of safety in this vulnerable group is a priority. This paper addresses issues related to pediatric needs, the medical system's shortcomings in caring for children, and recommendations for action.