Should I Take My Child to an Emergency Department or Pediatrician?
Discover the truth about questions that pique your curiosity in our “Short Answer” series. Orthopaedic surgeon Paul Saluan, MD, answers this one.
Should I Take My Child to an Emergency Department or Pediatrician?
Watch for these symptoms
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Q: My child is injured. Should I take her to a hospital emergency department or call our pediatrician?
A: You want to take your child to a hospital emergency department (or call 911) for any head or neck injury. Also, they need immediate medical attention if they develop:
- A deformity
- Swelling
- Loss of motion in an injured arm or leg
- Loss of consciousness
If your child is doing relatively OK but has minor aches, pains, bumps or bruises, then you can schedule a visit with a physician or pediatrician.