The Signs to Take a Toddler to the ER
Injuries and illnesses among toddlers can trigger a sense of panic and distress in parents. It can be difficult to decide whether to get an appointment to see the doctor or to rush to the emergency room. In such cases, a quick call to your pediatrician can be beneficial, because he can advise you on the steps to take. If your toddler needs urgent medical help, your pediatrician can notify the staff at a hospital or ER as you make your way there.
SEVERE BURNS
Young children are exposed to several hazards at home, one being the risk of burns. Hot liquids on the table or cooking stove, matches and firecrackers can be dangerous around a frisky toddler. If your toddler does suffer a burn, head to the ER if it covers a significant area of skin. Burns on the hands, face, feet and genitalia also require medical attention. Avoid applying petroleum jelly, oil or butter on the affected area. These substances retain the heat in the skin and may deepen the burn.
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CHOKING AND BREATHING PROBLEMS
Allergic reactions to certain foods, insect bites and pets can trigger symptoms such as labored breathing, swelling in the face and mouth and dizziness. Allergies can be fatal if the reaction is severe. If your toddler has a prescription epinephrine injection, use it first and then go to the ER. Choking can also be the result of a foreign particle such as food lodged in the airways or lungs, in which case your toddler needs ER treatment.
SERIOUS INJURIES
Concussions are potentially fatal brain injuries that occur in collisions and falls that impact the head. Signs of a concussion include nausea, vomiting, blurry vision, headache, confusion and memory problems, moodiness and sensitivity to light and noise. If your toddler has a bad fall and knocks her head or appears to have suffered a fracture, make your way to the ER. Cuts that result in uncontrolled bleeding and injuries to the eyes and ears also warrant ER treatment in most cases.
POISONING
Alcohol poisoning can be fatal for a toddler and can cause low blood sugar levels, vomiting, choking and seizures. If you suspect that your toddler had access to alcohol and you are unsure of the quantity he consumed, go to the ER. A toddler who comes upon cleaning products or other chemicals, medication, paint or other hazardous substances may consume it. In such cases, immediate medical attention is necessary. The Poison Help Line number, 800-222-1222 is also a handy resource in such emergencies, notes the American Academy of Pediatrics.
HIGH FEVER
Bacterial and viral infections can result in fevers, which are usually not cause for worry. Talk to your pediatrician for advice on medicating your toddler. If the body temperature is 104 degrees or higher and does not come down with medication and rest, you may need to take your toddler to the ER. Look for other signs of serious illness such as lethargy, unresponsiveness and extreme irritability. Meningitis is also a possibility if the fever is accompanied by a stiff neck, vomiting, headache and sensitivity to bright light.