Do You Know Who to Call in an Emergency?

When something major happens to your child or another family member, every second is important. So, be prepared.

Generally, you should call an ambulance in cases of severe bleeding, breathing trouble, a seizure that doesn’t stop, or loss of consciousness after an accident. But many pediatricians prefer you call them first. They are handling many emergencies in their offices.

Ask your child’s doctors which hospital’s emergency room they prefer and which have pediatric emergency rooms.

If your child has special health needs or chronic problems such as asthma, a seizure disorder, or a heart condition, you might wish to provide an emergency physician with special information.

Your doctor can help you fill out a”Emergency Information For Children with Special Needs” form designed by the American College of Emergency Physicians. (It can be downloaded at www.aap.org/advocacy/blankform.pdf) The form can give vital medical background in an emergency.

Keep a copy of the above form already filled out by your phone, and one in your car, so you have a copy available at all times.