What is the maximum age considered pediatric for medical issues?

The definition of pediatric age varies in different medical protocols, but for many emergency medical services, including Maryland EMT protocols, the maximum age considered pediatric is typically recognized as 18 years. This designation is important because pediatric patients often require different assessment and treatment approaches compared to adults, taking into account their developmental stage and physiological differences.

In this context, patients up to 18 years old are often treated with specialized pediatric guidelines that reflect their unique needs, such as differences in vital signs, medication dosages, and approaches to trauma and illness. This understanding is crucial for EMTs to provide age-appropriate care and ensure the best possible outcomes for younger patients.