Every pediatric practice should be prepared to recognize, respond to, and recover from medical emergencies. The 2026 AAP Policy Statement and Technical Report, Preparation for Pediatric Emergencies in the Office, provide guidance to help practices strengthen emergency readiness through staff training, appropriate equipment and medications, clear protocols, and ongoing quality improvement. These recommendations recognize that emergencies can occur in any outpatient setting, regardless of practice size, patient population, or location.
Emergency readiness extends beyond clinical response. Effective communication with patients and families before, during, and after an emergency is essential to high-quality care. Families should understand what to expect during an emergency, who will be communicating with them, and how information will be shared if a child requires transfer to a higher level of care. Practices can strengthen preparedness by incorporating family-centered communication into emergency planning, staff training, simulation exercises, and post-event reviews.
Emergency-Ready Practice Checklist
Use this checklist to evaluate your practice's preparedness for pediatric emergencies. Topics include staff training, emergency response processes, physical space considerations, office systems, supply management, essential equipment and medications, and additional items practices may consider based on patient population, staff training, location, and emergency medical services response times.
Family Communication Matters
During a pediatric emergency, families depend on clear, timely, and compassionate communication. Practices should identify who will communicate with caregivers during an event, explain next steps for treatment or transport, and include family-centered communication strategies in emergency drills and preparedness planning.
Last Updated
08/24/2026
Source
American Academy of Pediatrics