February 2015: My eldest daughter was just 15 months old, and it was the week of Valentine’s Day. She had been under the weather for a few days, and I was fairly certain it was a viral infection. Based on the illnesses circulating at her daycare, I suspected it was RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). This widely spread and highly contagious virus affects the respiratory system, typically presenting as a cold with symptoms like fever, runny nose, and cough. While most children recover without complications, a small percentage can develop severe conditions like pneumonia or bronchiolitis.
As a pediatrician and neonatologist, I had witnessed many children become critically ill from RSV. However, my daughter had no significant medical history, and I believed she would recover without issue. When my husband asked how I would recognize if her condition was deteriorating, I confidently responded, “I’ll just know.”
Fast forward to 6 p.m., and my instinct kicked in. I realized she needed urgent care. My husband was busy with a work call, and I had to interrupt him, insisting, “We need to go — right now.” He was taken aback but didn’t question me. I remember rushing to the car, urging him to speed, even to run red lights if necessary.
Upon entering the emergency room, I was overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty. This was my child in the very hospital where I worked. I was familiar with the nurses, doctors, and the protocols that would follow. I understood that her oxygen levels were dangerously low in the 70s and that they were administering more oxygen, which indicated they were managing her care effectively. Despite knowing she was in safe hands with competent professionals, I was still gripped by fear.
She was admitted to the Pediatric ICU, where a colleague of mine was on duty. His presence brought me a sense of relief and comfort, knowing that my daughter was receiving quality care. After three days in the hospital, she was discharged with oxygen support for a few additional days and thankfully recovered well.
Fast forward to January 2020, and I found myself in a similar situation with my son, who appeared unwell just like my daughter had years earlier. The girls were already asleep, so my husband stayed home while I took him to the ER. This time, it wasn’t the flu or RSV, but another virus that was causing him breathing difficulties, necessitating oxygen support. Although we were admitted for oxygen and IV fluids, my previous experience made me more prepared and less anxious than before. Still, I felt a wave of calm wash over me when the doctor entered the room, reassuring me we were in good hands.
So, why share this experience?
When your child is hospitalized, several strategies can ease the stress of parenting during such a challenging time. Here are my top tips for navigating a hospital stay with your little one:
- Seek Familiar Faces: If your child has previously been in the NICU or has ongoing medical issues, seeing a familiar nurse or doctor can provide significant comfort.
- Know What to Expect: Understand that emergency rooms prioritize the sickest patients first. You may find yourself repeating your child’s medical history multiple times, so prepare for a “hurry up and wait” scenario.
- Sleep When You Can: Hospitals can be noisy, making it difficult for both you and your child to rest. Bring your own pillow for comfort, and wear cozy clothes. Sleep whenever your child sleeps.
- Entertainment is Key: Bring your phone or tablet loaded with movies, books, or games to help occupy your time during long waits.
- Takeout Menus are Lifesavers: Hospital food is tolerable for a day, but after that, you’ll want to explore local delivery options. Ask the nurses for recommendations!
- Accept Help: It can be challenging to ask for assistance, but when someone offers to lend a hand, say yes. Whether it’s a meal or someone to watch your other kids, accepting help can alleviate stress.
- Advocate for Your Child: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification about your child’s treatment. You know your child best; be their voice.
- One Day at a Time: Focus on the positives each day may bring, rather than worrying about what might go wrong. Maintain flexibility, as children often don’t follow expected timelines for recovery.
Hospital stays can be frightening and exhausting, but with a bit of preparation and knowledge, you can make the experience more manageable. While prioritizing your child’s health, don’t forget to take care of yourself too. After all, your well-being is essential for your child’s recovery.
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Summary:
This article reflects on the author’s personal experiences as a pediatrician navigating her children’s medical emergencies. It provides practical tips for parents facing hospital stays with their kids, emphasizing the importance of seeking familiar faces, knowing what to expect, and advocating for your child’s care, all while ensuring self-care is not neglected.
Keyphrase: pediatric emergencies
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