Sometimes, deciding to take a child to the emergency department (ED) isn’t a clear-cut choice for parents.
In podcast No. 46, Amy Waunch, a trauma program manager at the Julia and George Argyros Emergency Department, helps clarify this question.
When considering an ED trip, Amy says parents should look for the ABCDs: an airway blockage; noisy high-pitched breathing; circulation problems, such as blood loss and extreme dehydration; or sudden disability, such as seizures or loss of consciousness.
Listen to the podcast to learn more about the ABCD concept, as well as other elements of an ED visit:
- common reasons for an ED trip;
- what ailments can wait until the pediatrician’s office opens;
- what to expect at the ED; and
- what to bring to the ED – and what to leave at home.
For parents interested in this topic, go to CHOC’s where to go for care guide.
