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When you arrive, first you will be seen by a nurse who
will ask you some questions. This is to find out how
serious your child’s condition is and to make
sure the most seriously ill or injured can be seen and
treated as soon as possible. If your child is not as
seriously ill, you will have to wait to see a casualty
doctor. Accident and Emergency departments can be very
busy, so try to be patient. In the waiting area you
should find a separate play area for children and pay
phones are always nearby.
When your turn is called the casualty doctor will ask
you about the problem and examine your child. You should
be able to stay with your child at all times so try
to reassure her and, where you can, explain what is
going on. If the doctor decides to do some tests such
as X-rays or a blood test, you may need to wait again
for the results.
The doctor will then talk to you about any treatment
your child may need and the options available.
If your child needs stitches, dressings,
medicines or a plaster she should normally be able to
go home after she has been treated. If the doctor thinks
she needs to stay in hospital, she should be given a
bed as soon as possible and usually no later than two
hours after you have seen the doctor
This depends a lot on the age of your child. Obviously
a teenager can cope with, and will probably expect as
full an explanation as you can give, whereas a 5 year
old needs it to be kept simple and straightforward.
In any event it is best to be as truthful as possible,
and try to involve your child as much as you can. Simple
things like asking which arm she prefers to have an
injection in, or how she would like to take her medicine,
can make her feel more comfortable and in control.
Before you go home make sure you are happy with any
advice and instructions you have been given. By now
both you and your child will quite naturally feel tired
and drained, so it is even more important to understand
exactly how to give any medicine, when to give it and
for how long. You need to know what to do if the problem
comes back or gets worse (if appropriate) and whether
or not you need a follow-up appointment. If you are
not sure about anything, please ask.
Remember, casualty staff are trained
to deal with all kinds of emergency situations and most
will be more than happy to help.
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What
do I say to my child?