PECARN Pediatric Blunt Abdominal Trauma Rule

Identifies children under 18 with blunt torso trauma at very low risk of intra-abdominal injury needing intervention, from seven history and exam findings, so CT can usually be deferred; a rule-out aid, not for penetrating trauma and never mandating CT.

Evidence of abdominal wall trauma or seat belt sign

GCS score < 14 (with blunt abdominal trauma)

Abdominal tenderness on examination

Evidence of thoracic (chest) wall trauma

Complaint of abdominal pain

Decreased breath sounds

Vomiting