Top 10 Pediatric Emergencies and How to Handle Them

When it comes to children’s health, emergencies can happen at any time. As a parent or caregiver, knowing how to respond quickly and effectively can make all the difference. Here are the top 10 pediatric emergencies and essential steps to handle them.

1. High Fever (Above 102°F)

Symptoms: Lethargy, irritability, dehydration, seizures in severe cases.
What to Do:

• Use a digital thermometer to check the temperature.
• Give fever-reducing medication like acetaminophen (as per dosage guidelines).
• Keep your child hydrated with fluids.
• Seek immediate medical attention if the fever is persistent, exceeds 104°F, or is accompanied by seizures.

2. Difficulty Breathing

Symptoms: Wheezing, bluish lips, rapid breathing, inability to speak. What to Do:

• Keep your child calm and in an upright position.
• Use a prescribed inhaler if available (for asthma patients).
• Seek emergency care if breathing does not improve.

3. Severe Allergic Reactions (Anaphylaxis)

Symptoms: Swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, hives, vomiting. What to Do:

• Administer an epinephrine injection (EpiPen) if prescribed.
• Call 911 or rush to the nearest emergency center.

4. Choking

Symptoms: Inability to breathe or speak, clutching the throat, turning blue. What to Do:

• For infants: Perform back blows and chest thrusts.
• For older children: Use the Heimlich maneuver.
• If unsuccessful, call 911 immediately.

5. Seizures

Symptoms: Uncontrolled jerking, loss of consciousness, foaming at the mouth. What to Do:

• Do not restrain the child.
• Turn them on their side to prevent choking.
• Seek urgent medical help if the seizure lasts more than five minutes.

6. Poisoning or Accidental Ingestion

Symptoms: Vomiting, confusion, difficulty breathing. What to Do:

• Identify the substance ingested.
• Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
• Seek immediate medical care.

7. Broken Bones or Fractures

Symptoms: Severe pain, swelling, visible deformity. What to Do:

• Immobilize the injured area.
• Apply ice to reduce swelling.
• Seek immediate medical attention.

8. Burns

Symptoms: Redness, blistering, charred skin. What to Do:

• Cool the burn under running water for at least 10 minutes.
• Cover with a clean cloth and avoid popping blisters.
• Seek medical care for severe burns.

9. Dehydration

Symptoms: Dry mouth, sunken eyes, lack of tears, lethargy. What to Do:

• Encourage frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solutions.
• Seek medical attention if dehydration symptoms persist.

10. Head Injuries

Symptoms: Vomiting, loss of consciousness, confusion. What to Do:

• Keep your child still and avoid unnecessary movement.
• Apply ice to reduce swelling.
• Seek emergency care if there is loss of consciousness or persistent vomiting.

Get Expert Pediatric Care at Richmond Medical Clinic

At Richmond Medical Clinic, we provide comprehensive pediatric emergency care to ensure your child’s health and safety. Whether it’s a high fever, breathing difficulties, or injuries, our experienced doctors are here to help. We offer walk-in visits, flu vaccinations, telehealth consultations, and urgent pediatric care for families in Richmond, Katy, Sugar Land, and Rosenberg, TX.

📍 Visit Us: 5530 Long Prairie Trace, Suite 400, Richmond, TX 77407
📞 Call Us: +1 832-400-9623

Your child’s health is our priority! Visit us today for expert pediatric care.