Pediatric patients are more vulnerable to iatrogenic factors for several reasons:
- Developmental Differences: Children are in various stages of growth and development, which affects how their bodies respond to medical treatments. - Communication Barriers: Young children may not be able to communicate their symptoms effectively, making it challenging for healthcare providers to accurately diagnose and treat conditions. - Physiological Differences: Differences in organ function, metabolic rate, and body composition mean that children often require tailored medical dosages and treatments. - Dependency on Caregivers: Children rely heavily on caregivers for the administration of their treatments, adding another layer where errors can occur.
