Parent’s Ultimate Pediatric Emergency Playbook

Pediatric Emergencies

There are more than 30 million pediatric emergency room visits every year. Here are some of the top reasons and ways to prevent them.

1. Falls

Falls are a leading cause of injury among children, often resulting in fractures or head injuries. To minimize risks:

• Supervise playtime: Always keep an eye on your child during play, especially on playgrounds or near stairs.
• Childproof your home: Install safety gates on stairs and secure heavy furniture to prevent tip-overs.

Warning Signs to Visit the ER:

• Loss of consciousness
• Persistent crying or irritability
• Vomiting after a fall
• Unexplained changes in behavior

2. Choking

Choking hazards are prevalent, particularly in children under five. To reduce the risk of choking, try:

• Monitoring mealtimes: Cut food into small, manageable pieces and supervise your child while eating.
• Choose age-appropriate toys: Ensure toys do not have small parts that could be swallowed.

Warning Signs to Visit the ER:

• Inability to breathe or speak
• Blue lips or face
• Loss of consciousness

3. Poisoning

Accidental ingestion of medications or household chemicals is a serious concern and could lead to severe injury. You can help prevent poisoning by:

• Storing substances safely: Keep medications, cleaning supplies, and other chemicals out of reach and in childproof containers.
• Educating caregivers: Ensure all caregivers know about potential hazards and storage practices.

Warning Signs to Visit the ER:

• Sudden unexplained illness
• Burns or redness around the mouth
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe abdominal pain
• Vomiting

4. Burns

Burns are unfortunate accidents from hot liquids, electrical sources, or open flames. To protect your child from burns:

• Supervise in the kitchen: Keep children away from hot stoves, ovens, and grills.
• Use barriers: Install guards around fireplaces and radiators.

Warning Signs to Visit the ER:

• Burns larger than the size of the child’s hand
• Burns on the face, hands, feet, or genitals
• Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus)

5. Drowning

Drowning can occur in as little as an inch of water. To help prevent drowning:

• Constant supervision: Never leave children unattended near water, including bathtubs and pools.
• Install barriers: Use pool fences and safety covers to restrict access.
• Remove pool toys: Store all pool toys when not in use. This will help minimize the risk of children falling into the water while trying to reach the toys.

Warning Signs to Visit the ER:

All incidents involving drowning require medical attention, even if your child seems fine. Please rush to the ER if your child shows any of these signs:

• Difficulty breathing after being in the water
• Persistent coughing
• Unconsciousness

6. Allergic Reactions

Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) can be life-threatening. To prevent reactions:

• Know your child’s allergies: Avoid known allergens and inform all caregivers, including teachers.
• Carry emergency medication: Have antihistamines or epinephrine auto-injectors available if prescribed.

Warning Signs to Visit the ER:

• Swelling of the face or lips
• Difficulty breathing
• Hives or rash spreading quickly
• Unconsciousness

7. Asthma Attacks

Asthma can escalate rapidly, leading to respiratory distress. You can help reduce attacks by:

• Manage triggers: Keep your home free from smoke, dust, and pet dander.
• Follow medical advice: Ensure your child takes prescribed medications regularly.

Warning Signs to Visit the ER:

• Rapid breathing or wheezing
• Difficulty speaking
• Blue lips or face

8. Seizures

Seizures can be frightening and may have various causes. To manage the risk:

• Follow medical guidance: If your child has a known seizure disorder, adhere to treatment plans.
• Ensure safety: Create a safe environment to prevent injury during a seizure.

Warning Signs to Visit the ER:

• Seizure lasting more than five minutes
• Difficulty breathing after a seizure
• First-time seizure

9. Fever

While common, high fevers can lead to febrile seizures and could indicate severe underlying conditions. To manage fevers:

• Monitor temperature: Use a reliable thermometer to track fever progression.
• Hydrate: Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids.

Warning Signs to Visit the ER:

• Fever above 104°F (40°C)
• Unresponsive or lethargic behavior
• Seizure activity
• Symptoms do not improve with medication
• Rash

10. Fractures

Broken bones often result from falls or sports injuries. Prevent fractures by:

• Use protective gear: Ensure your child wears appropriate safety equipment during activities.
• Create a safe environment: Remove tripping hazards and always supervise play.

Warning Signs to Visit the ER:

• Visible deformity
• Inability to move the affected limb
• Severe pain and swelling