Know where your doctors have privileges. There are a lot of hospitals in town and your doctor can usually go to one or two of them. It makes no sense going to the hospital for a stomach problem and you can’t get a consultation from your pediatric gastroenterologist.
Bring copies of your medical records. You’re ER doctor doesn’t know your child. Recent or old medical records can hold clues to potential problems. It also saves your child from having unnecessary labs and/or procedures.
Bring layers of clothing. Hospitals are generally cold. Most of ER visits are at night and the child is only wearing pajamas.
Bring lots of food. An ER visit can easily last 12 hours before you can go home or get a bed assignment. An ER is not equipped with formula or food for children.
Bring a comfort toy. Preferably something in plastic that can be washed. Hospitals have germs. Bringing pillows or stuffed animals, things that can’t be washed properly after the visit is not a good idea. You might have to throw out the item.
Children’s Hospitals. There are a lot of hospitals that are now catering to your child. They have a staff and locations set up with books, toys and play areas. If your child ends up staying at the hospital, it’s nice to have indoor facilities to pass the time, making the stay more pleasant.
Child Life Center. If you know that your child is going to be traumatized by a procedure or the visit. Ask if there is someone available from the hospital’s Child Life Center. A staff member can have great resources to explain the situations using books, toys or other child friendly means.
Remember that you have rights. If you feel that someone from the staff isn’t listening to you or your child. Ask to speak with someone or get a second opinion.
