We've attempted to answer some of the questions we hear the most —especially from parents.
When should I bring my child to the Emergency Room?
Anytime you are concerned about the health of your child you can come to the emergency room. Some common medical conditions requiring medical care include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe pain
- Fever
- Head injuries
- Cuts or wounds that will not stop bleeding
- A chronic condition that has become suddenly worse
- Car or ATV accident
- Ingestion of medicines or chemicals
How long will I wait to see a doctor?
We are committed to getting kids treated as fast as we can. Although we cannot predict wait times in the Emergency Room, we are proud to say that on average you will be seen by a provider in less than 20 minutes from the time you arrive. If we have open rooms available when you arrive your child will come back to a room right away and be checked-in by a nurse. We then make quick assessments to get the sickest kids seen first. We work hard and take pride in getting children the help they need as fast as we can.
Who will take care of my child when I come to the Children’s Emergency Room at Erlanger?
Our emergency room is filled with wonderful doctors, providers, nurses, nursing technicians, respiratory therapist, child life specialists, and social workers that have all chosen to work in Pediatric Emergency Medicine. All our providers are board certified in pediatric emergency medicine or pediatrics. All our nurses have additional training on caring for children, especially with emergency medical problems.
What does it mean to be a teaching facility?
Teaching facilities have committed time and resources to providing excellence in education for medical professionals. As a teaching hospital we have high standards of care and stay current with new medical treatments and research.
Why should I bring my child to a Pediatric Emergency Room as opposed to a regular Emergency Room?
Taking care of kids is our specialty. Our entire staff has chosen to dedicate themselves to the emergency care of children. We do not take care of adults. But we are the best choice for kids. Our approach is child-centered and we provide specialty care in pediatrics.
What does it mean to be a Level I Trauma Center?
Level I Trauma Centers have been certified by the American College of Surgeons and are capable of taking care of all levels of traumatic injuries. Level I Trauma Centers have specialty trained staff, medical equipment, and an emergency response system for getting quick and efficient medical care.
Can I call the Emergency Room and get advice on whether or not I should bring my child to an Emergency Room?
As an emergency room we are unable to give medical advice over the phone. Primary care and pediatrician’s offices typically have an answering service to take after hour questions like this one and are able to give medical advice. We recommend calling your regular doctor who will be able to answer this question.
Do you have Child Life Specialists in your Emergency Room?
Yes, we have wonderful child life specialist who staff our emergency room. The child life specialists have degrees and additional training in order to provide emotional support and minimize your child’s fear during your emergency room visit.
What information will I be asked when I bring my child-in?
It will be important that you provide information on your child’s medical history, allergies, immunization status, medications taken at home, and current symptoms, and reason for the visit.
What should I bring with me when I come to the Emergency Room?
We know in emergencies it is not always easy to have everything you need on hand. However, if you have time and are able it is great to bring the medicines your child takes at home, special equipment your child uses at home, and any medical information from a recent hospital or doctor’s office visit.
Can my child have visitors in the room when in the Emergency Department?
We allow three visitors with each child in the Emergency Room. This is for the safety of your child and the safety of other children.
What will happen if my child gets admitted to the hospital?
If you child is admitted to the hospital you will be assigned a private room. The nurse taking care of your child will come down from the floor and receive a report on your child’s illness or injury and what treatments we have completed in the Emergency Room. The nurse will then take you to your room and get the admission process started and help you and your child get settled.
