Investigating Operational Readiness of Health Systems for Paediatric Mass Casualty Incidents: A Scoping Review Protocol

ObjectiveThe objective of this scoping review is to understand the frameworks and methodologies used in assessing the operational readiness (OPR) of health systems for mass casualty incidents (MCI) involving children. IntroductionChildren are at a higher risk of morbidity and mortality because of mass casualty incidents. A lack of operational readiness for mass casualty incidents reduces the capacity of the health system to adequately respond swiftly and safely. Understanding the methods by which health system OPR can be assessed in relation to MCIs is key to the development of recommendations for improving OPR. Inclusion criteriaThis review will include published evidence (including grey literature) which investigates methods of assessing health system OPR for mass casualty incidents. Studies published in the English language will be included and there will be no time limit applied to the search. MethodsThe search databases will consist of PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, Global Health, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, PsycInfo and the Cochrane CENTRAL Register of Controlled Trials. The PRISMA extension for scoping reviews will be used to allow for clarity, replicability and transparency and the review will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews. Screening will be performed using Endnote 20 and Covidence software programs. Study characteristics, methodologies, assessment tools and outcomes will be extracted for analysis. A descriptive analysis, thematic synthesis, evidence mapping and a narrative synthesis will be undertaken to provide a summary of the review findings.