Pediatric Services

Emergencies

Is it an emergency?
Use these guidelines to determine if you should take your child to the emergency room. You may want to call your pediatrician first. Ask your doctor where your child should be taken.

Your child may need to go to the hospital if he has:

• Any trouble breathing
• Fevers if your child is less than three months old
• Dehydration
• Poisoning
• Swallowed foreign objects
• Seizures or loss of consciousness
• Abdominal pain associated with fever, vomiting or bleeding
• Sudden lack of energy or not able to move
• Injuries from a car or bike accident
• Injuries from a severe fall
• Cuts and burns
• Blood in the urine or bloody diarrhea
• Suspected broken bones
• Potential suicide or behavioral or mental disorders

When you should call your doctor
These situations are usually not emergencies but may require a call to your doctor or health care provider during office hours.

• Colds and sore throats
• Pink eye
• Minor illnesses with or without fever in children less than three months
• Diaper rash and other mild skin problems
• Constipation
• Fever and vomiting
• Limping
• Ear pain or drainage from the ear
• Not eating or drinking for a day
• Mild behavioral problems
• Conditions that have existed for several weeks
• School problems

If you still can't decide whether your child's illness requires emergency treatment, call your pediatrician or health care provider during office hours. He or she can tell you if the condition would be better treated during a regular office visit.

Infant/child CPR classes
In addition to having a good first aid kit on hand, having the knowledge of basic first aid skills is also beneficial. Women's Education Life Learning (WELL) offers a four-hour class on infant/child cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This program provides an essential learning experience for any new or expecting parent, grandparent or anyone who is responsible for the care of infants and children.
Fee: $40. Contact: WELL (203) 688-9355.

Learn more
• YNHH Health Library: Minor problem or True Emergency?

Physician Referral Online A free and confidential service of Yale-New Haven Hospital. Physician Referral Online Using your own criteria, you can request information from a database of 900 area physicians who have registered to participate. Request an appointment We would be happy to assist you in scheduling an appointment with a member of the hospital's medical staff. Use the link above or call: 203-688-2000 or toll free 1-888-700-6543 to talk with a referral coordinator.

Reviewed: Greg Germain, MD, December 1999
Last revised: Jan. 8, 2008 (dh)

Home page URL: http://www.ynhh.org

All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.