Asphyxiation is one of the most common causes of pediatric fatal and nonfatal injury accidents, homicides, and suicides worldwide. The presenters will provide attendees with a strong foundation of the pathophysiology, signs/symptoms, and difficulties in diagnosing 12 types of non-aquatic asphyxiation (e.g. positional, traumatic, choking, strangulation, inert gas, confined space), as well as an understanding of why children are particularly susceptible to asphyxiation mechanisms. There will be a discussion of how to use diagnoses of exclusion methods to provide multidisciplinary team members with investigation strategies.
Learning Objectives:
Define at least eight different types of asphyxiation that can be involved in crimes against children
Explain the mechanisms and physiology of at least eight different types of pediatric asphyxiation
State at least ten investigative questions relating to asphyxiation crimes against children
