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Minor Problem vs. a True Emergency
Many minor injuries can be handled at home. However, there are times when a trip to the hospital emergency department is needed. In general, take your child to an emergency room after an injury anytime you think the
problem may need urgent attention, including if your child has:
Trouble breathing, shortness of breath or bloody sputum.
Blue or purple color to lips, skin or nail beds.
Chest or stomach pain or pressure.
Sudden dizziness, weakness or change in vision.
Change in mental status (such as loss of consciousness, confusion or trouble waking).
Seizures.
Animal, snake or human bites.
Severe pain or loss of motion or sensation anywhere in the body.
Severe bleeding or bleeding that does not stop with direct pressure.
Severe burns or burns of the face.
Broken bones.
Puncture wounds.
Head, spinal cord or eye injuries.
Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, swelling of the face, lips, eyes, or tongue, fainting, or with trouble breathing, swallowing or wheezing.
This is a partial list. There are other problems that may require emergency care. Contact your child's physician for more information.
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