1.1 This guide establishes minimum guidelines for the development and operation of a pediatric trauma facility in a children's or general hospital. A pediatric trauma facility is an institution whose medical and administrative leadership has expressed the personal, institutional, and financial commitment to optimal care of the injured child 24 h a day, 365 days a year.

1.2 This guide defines the system, organizational structure, clinical personnel, and physical equipment necessary for a pediatric trauma facility, whether freestanding or a joint adult/pediatric facility in either a children's hospital or general hospital committed to the care of injured children.

1.3 The criteria outline in this guide incorporates levels of categorization and their essential or desired characteristics.