Automotive Restraint Devices for the Pediatric Patient

Last year 6,300 children under 15 years of age died in motor vehicle accidents. This number would have been reduced if all children and infants had been properly restrained. The purpose of this paper is to give information and suggestions to help enable the practicing physician to understand what restraining devices to prescribe. It is recommended that children from birth to the time they are 12 lb in weight be transported in a rear seat bassinet or car bed held in place by front and rear seat safety belts. The bassinet should be parallel to the long axis of the car, with the infant in a feet-forward position. Children from 12 to 24 lb should be placed in a properly constructed rear seat safety harness. Children from 24 to 48 lb should be placed in a rear seat, shield-type system. Children weighing more than 50 lb should use the adult lap belt, and, when their height exceeds 55 in., the adult shoulder harness should also be used. The physician is in a position to be effective in prescribing the proper device.