What is a common complication of prolonged transport in critically ill pediatric patients?

Prolonged transport in critically ill pediatric patients often leads to pressure ulcers, which are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue that occur as a result of prolonged pressure on the skin. In these patients, limited mobility and the need to remain in one position for an extended period can increase the risk of skin breakdown, particularly over bony prominences such as the sacrum, heels, and elbows.

These pressure ulcers can complicate the clinical picture and may lead to increased morbidity, delayed recovery, and prolonged hospital stays. The risk is particularly high in the pediatric population due to their delicate skin and the potential for hypoperfusion during transport. Preventative measures, such as regular position changes and the use of specialized mattresses, are critical in reducing the incidence of pressure ulcers during transport.

In contrast, while other complications such as respiratory distress or medication side effects can occur during transport, they are not as directly correlated with the duration of transport as pressure ulcers. Acclimatization syndrome is also not commonly recognized in the context of prolonged transport in pediatric patients, making it less relevant in this specific scenario.