Nebraska’s First and Only Level I Pediatric Trauma Center

What It Means to Be a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center

When your child is seriously injured, every second feels like an eternity. In those moments, you want a team with the highest level of expertise and resources ready to provide immediate, life-saving care. At Children’s Nebraska, we are honored to be home to the only Level I Pediatric Trauma Center in the state, verified by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This special recognition means we are uniquely prepared to care for the most complex and critical pediatric injuries. We offer a complete range of services, from our Emergency Department to surgery, recovery and rehabilitation, all designed for children.

“This achievement reflects a team devoted to delivering the highest level of care for every child, every time,” says Abdalla Zarroug, MD, senior vice president and surgeon-in-chief. “As Nebraska’s first and only Level I Pediatric Trauma Center, we are ready to care for the most critically injured children today and shape the future of pediatric trauma care.”

What Is a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center?

Level I verification is the highest a hospital can receive for pediatric trauma care. It is a promise to your family and our community that our program not only meets but exceeds demanding national standards for resources, research and round-the-clock staffing. It means we provide the most comprehensive surgical and specialty care for seriously injured children 24/7. This designation from the ACS confirms that we are ready for any pediatric emergency.

Unmatched Expertise Ready 24/7

Having a team of specialists always ready is at the heart of our Level I Pediatric Trauma Center. Our commitment ensures that your child receives expert care from a team that specializes in treating children.

• Pediatric surgeons lead emergency surgery and coordinate trauma care

• Emergency Medicine doctors provide rapid assessment and stabilize injuries

• Anesthesiologists ensure children are safely and comfortably cared for during procedures

• Nurses with advanced trauma training deliver expert support and compassionate bedside care

Always-On Access to Pediatric Specialists

Our Emergency Department is staffed around the clock by board-certified pediatric emergency medicine physicians, nurses and trauma surgeons. This team is supported by a full roster of on-call pediatric experts. This ensures that no matter the injury, your child is seen by a specialist trained specifically to care for kids.

Advanced Resources for Critical Injuries

Our hospital is designed just for children. From child-sized equipment and dedicated pediatric operating rooms to our Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), every resource is tailored for young patients. We provide immediate access to advanced imaging, a blood bank and comprehensive laboratory services to support fast diagnosis and treatment.

A Coordinated Family-Centered Approach to Healing

We know that trauma care goes far beyond the initial emergency. It involves supporting your child and family through every phase of healing. Our team works together to provide care and surround you with support.

• Care managers guide families through each step of the trauma care process

• Child Life specialists offer emotional support and age-appropriate education for children

• Social workers help with logistical needs and financial assistance

• Seamless communication ensures your family is always informed and involved in care decisions

• Dedicated resources are available to support your family's wellbeing during recovery

Seamless Care from Arrival to Recovery

From the moment a child arrives, our trauma team is activated. We provide coordinated care designed to achieve the best possible outcomes. Our support team of care managers, social workers and Child Life specialists are here to help you navigate this stressful time so you can focus on your child’s healing.

The Hub of Pediatric Trauma Care for the Region

As the region’s pediatric trauma hub, we partner with hospitals throughout Nebraska and the surrounding area. We provide education, outreach and consultation to help improve pediatric emergency care everywhere. When a child’s needs are greater than what another hospital can provide, our Transport team is ready to bring them to Children’s Nebraska safely and quickly.

Our Commitment to Excellence

Maintaining our Level I verification from the ACS is a continuous commitment. It drives us to lead in research, injury prevention and community education. Our team is dedicated to advancing the science of pediatric trauma care, ensuring families have access to the most effective treatments available. This dedication is at the heart of our mission to improve the life of every child.