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Citation
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Cheng TA, Bell JM, Haileyesus T, Gilchrist J, Sugerman DE, Coronado VG. Pediatrics 2016; 137(6): e20152721-e20152721. |
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Abstract
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OBJECTIVE: To describe the circumstances, characteristics, and trends of emergency department (ED) visits for nonfatal, playground-related traumatic brain injury (TBI) among persons aged ≤14 years.
METHODS: The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System-All Injury Program from January 1, 2001, through December 31, 2013, was examined. US Census bridged-race population estimates were used as the denominator to compute rates per 100 000 population. SAS and Joinpoint linear weighted regression analyses were used to analyze the best-fitting join-point and the annual modeled rate change. These models were used to indicate the magnitude and direction of rate trends for each segment or period.
RESULTS: During the study period, an annual average of 21 101 persons aged ≤14 years were treated in EDs for playground-related TBI. The ED visit rate for boys was 39.7 per 100 000 and 53.5 for persons aged 5-9 years. Overall, 95.6% were treated and released, 33.5% occurred at places of recreation or sports, and 32.5% occurred at school. Monkey bars or playground gyms (28.3%) and swings (28.1%) were the most frequently associated with TBI, but equipment involvement varied by age group. The annual rate of TBI ED visits increased significantly from 2005 to 2013 (P <.05).
CONCLUSIONS: Playgrounds remain an important location of injury risk to children. Strategies to reduce the incidence and severity of playground-related TBIs are needed. These may include improved adult supervision, methods to reduce child risk behavior, regular equipment maintenance, and improvements in playground surfaces and environments.
Language: en |