Final answer:
A rapid trauma survey is most critical for the Alert 2-year-old child in a car seat who was in a medium-speed crash, due to the high risk of hidden injuries and head trauma in young children.
Step-by-step explanation:
The patient who should receive a rapid trauma survey to determine hidden injuries is Alert 2-year-old child in a car seat who was in a medium-speed crash.
Rapid trauma surveys are a crucial aspect of the assessment in pediatric patients involved in vehicle accidents due to the potential for hidden injuries. Despite the safety mechanisms like car seats, young children are susceptible to significant trauma that may not be immediately apparent. Additionally, young children may not be able to verbalize their discomfort or localize pain as effectively as older individuals, making thorough assessments even more critical. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2010) emphasizes the importance of attention to the potential for head and traumatic brain injuries, especially in young children, as they are among the leading causes of injury-related deaths. Early detection and treatment of injuries in pediatric patients can improve outcomes and potentially prevent long-term disability or death.