American Trauma Society
Pennsylvania Division
2025 ATSPA Virtual Conference Recap
Session 1
Injury Prevention in Childhood Poisoning
Anthony Jaworski, PharmD, BCPS, DABAT
Clinical Toxicologist – Poison Control Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
This session will provide insight into common situations and circumstances that contribute to child injuries caused by poisoning. By understanding these scenarios and the role of the poison control system, effective prevention strategies will be applied to reduce these risks.
Objectives:
1. To discuss the roles of poison control in the U.S. public health system.
2. To identify pertinent trends in poison control data related to child welfare.
3. To apply prevention strategies to various child poisoning scenarios.
Session 2
Workplace Violence in the Healthcare Environment
John Oast, MS, CHPS
Director of Security, Training and Special Programs – Geisinger Health System
This session will focus on the factors which have influenced the current state of workplace violence within the healthcare environment. Current regulatory requirements and legislation will be discussed, as will best practices for minimizing workplace violence within healthcare facilities.
Objectives:
1. To explore current workplace violence concerns within the healthcare environment.
2. To identify regulatory requirements and legal protections/penalties related to healthcare workplace violence.
3. To apply understanding of organizational and employee resources and practices to better protect patients, visitors, and staff.
Session 3
Being Prepared for a Critical and Distressing Incident
Robert Carpenter, NRP, CP-C, CCISM
Executive Director – Emergency Medical Services of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Inc.
This session will provide an overview on the symptoms of stress and the common critical incident events seen by first responders and emergency personnel. Attendees will be provided information on the history, goals, and elements of Critical Incident Stress Management. This program will prepare providers for a critical incident and provide resources and practical applications for further exploration and resolve.
Objectives:
1. To define and differentiate types of stress and their indicators.
2. To state the impact of stress on the body and identify the appropriate interventions.
3. To identify and describe programs and interventions in the CISM umbrella that reduce the impact of stress in clinical settings.
Session 4
Rising from the Fall: The Impact of a Traumatic Hiking Injury
Karen Benjamin – Trauma Survivor
This session will provide a candid and in-depth discussion of a traumatic hiking incident, including details of the fall and subsequent rescue efforts. The session will explore the physical and emotional challenges faced during a two-month stay in the hospital, as well as the journey of recovery and the long-term impact on life. Participants will gain insight into the process of healing both physically and mentally, the challenges of adapting to a new normal, and the personal growth that can emerge from such a life-altering experience. This session will offer a reflective space for sharing personal stories, providing support, and discussing how such an event changes one's perspective on life.
Objectives:
1. To identify and describe the details of a traumatic incident/experience, including the circumstances of the event and the immediate response.
2. To examine various aspects of both the physical and emotional healing process, including common challenges and strategies to support recovery.
3. To reflect on lessons learned from the experience, both for the individual and for the broader context of traumatic injury prevention and recovery.
4. To assess the life after recovery, including potential lifestyle changes, adaptations, and strategies for managing long-term effects.