When your child has to visit the Emergency Department

Going to the emergency department is never a fun experience and rarely does one have time to plan to make the visit go smoothly. It can help to have an idea of things to bring to the hospital in case your child were to get sick or be in an accident. Having this information saved somewhere safe in your wallet or in your phone is helpful for any doctor’s appointment, but will be especially helpful during the stress of an emergency visit.

  • Insurance Information
  • Primary provider’s name and contact
  • Medications and supplements
  • Allergies

For children, providers will often ask about vaccines. Knowing if your child is up to date on their most recent vaccines, or having access through a patient portal to their records will help the providers taking care of your family make the best decisions on treatment.

If you have enough time to pack a bag for the emergency department, bring a phone charger, activities like a tablet for an older child to keep occupied, comfort items for your child like a lovey or pacifier, and if appropriate, a diaper bag with clean clothes, diapers, bottles and formula. A pen and paper are handy to take notes, and write down any questions you have while you are waiting. If you are expecting your child might be admitted to the hospital, consider adding a change of clothes for you and some simple toiletries. Hospitals are generally safe, but leave behind your valuables, jewelry and large amounts of cash.

Wait times can be long and can fluctuate depending on the time of year or even day to day depending on staffing and other emergencies that have come in that day. Providers in the emergency department try and see the sickest patients first, so if your child has a minor injury you may wait longer than someone that has come in after you. If your child’s symptoms worsen while waiting, let the staff know. Speak up to the staff if you have questions, but know they are working hard in an unpredictable environment. After discharge always follow up with your child’s primary provider about any changes in their care plan after their visit. The more prepared you are for an emergency visit, the more you can focus on your child’s needs.

 

Stefanie Rydstrom Hartman, MS, RN, CPNP
Brain Injury Center/Trauma Center
Nurse Practitioner II
Boston Children’s Hospital