Abstract: TH-PO1225
Kids Are Not Young Adults: Understanding the Unique Needs and Vulnerabilities of Pediatric Kidney Care Programs During Disasters
Session Information
- Pediatric Nephrology: CV Health, CKD, AKI, Dialysis, Transplantation, and Health Services Research
October 22, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Pediatric Nephrology
- 1800 Pediatric Nephrology
Authors
- Sidhu, Harneer, McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- El Wazze, Saly, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Pederson, Kristen L., Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Sandal, Shaifali, McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Background
Disasters and emergencies (climate-related or unrelated) are rising in scope and frequency globally, and their impacts on the safety and well-being of children with kidney diseases are widely recognized. Informal data from Ukraine and Syria highlight mortality rates of up to 50% among children with kidney failure. To date, no study has examined the specific needs and concerns of pediatric patients and programs during a disaster setting. We conducted a vulnerability and adaptation assessment of pediatric kidney programs in Canada.
Methods
Using a qualitative descriptive design, we conducted semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals involved in the care of pediatric patients, recruited using purposive and snowballing approaches. The interview transcripts were thematically analyzed using an inductive approach.
Results
Among the 11 pediatric hospitals across Canada that provide kidney services, nine providers from six centers have participated thus far. All reported the lack of a renal-specific disaster plan, even though half reported being directly or indirectly impacted by an emergency or disaster event. Many highlighted themes were similar to what has been reported in the adult setting, such as issues with communication and coordination, poor resources, limited capacity, and lack of guidance. However, three unique themes emerged: 1) Unique considerations in pediatric settings: Participants emphasized that pediatric patients have distinct vulnerabilities compared with adults, particularly in dialysis settings, due to size-specific equipment needs and the specialized training required for nurses and technicians. 2) Differential impact of disasters: Participants noted that even relatively small-scale events, such as localized E. coli outbreaks leading to a HUS, can place significant strain on pediatric kidney care systems and potentially lead to broader system-level disruptions. 3) Cross-provincial adaptation needs: Given this, the need for a cross-provincial memorandum of understanding to share tangible and intangible resources was particularly highlighted, along with institutional support and patient education.
Conclusion
Our findings address a key nephrology practice gap focused on adult kidney care. Expanding to caregiver perspectives, we believe these findings are highly relevant to pediatrics as climate-related and other hazards rise globally.
Funding
- Government Support – Non-U.S.