3 Things to Look for in Pediatric Urgent Care

July 18, 2019

Pediatrics is a branch of medicine that specializes in the health of children. When children are young, their immune systems are still developing, which may make them more susceptible to contracting diseases. On average, a child comes down with six to 10 colds a year. On the other end of the spectrum, when children are young, they are likely to heal faster if they suffer a bone fracture or some skin abrasion.

In the case of an emergency, it is important to take your child to an urgent care center that specializes in pediatrics. Pediatric care units differ from those that work with adults because pediatricians cater to the needs of the child physically and mentally.

Things to Look for in a Pediatrician

Good pediatric units are essential to ensuring your child is being given the highest quality of care. Here's what you should look for.

1. Emotional Care: When a child is in pain or suffering from a bad cold, they might be scared of what is happening or what might happen to them. Pediatric nurses and doctors should have an exceptional, bedside manner and be empathetic to your child's emotional needs. It's a good sign if they try to engage your child in conversation and coach them through what they are doing. Do they sing while they work? Do they have toys that will help distract your child during painful procedures? All of these things could help your child feel more comfortable.


2. Physical Care: Aside from bedside manner, Pediatricians understand how different children are from adults when it comes to physical health. When a child is being diagnosed, careful attention should be given to how the diagnosis is made. Pediatricians will evaluate each situation and decide what procedures really need to be done and which ones can be left out. If, for example, an X-ray is needed, the pediatrician will know to adjust radiation settings to the minimum needed to accurately read the film. This reduces radiation exposure to the young, growing body. If medicinal drugs are prescribed for pain or healing purposes, it will be noted to adjust dosages appropriately for a lower weight. Pediatrics is its own branch of medicine because it requires special attention to adjusting small details that can make all the difference in a child's recovery.


3. Short Wait Time: Quality care is essential, but so is the wait time. Over half of urgent care centers are estimated to have a wait time of 15 minutes. If it takes any longer, it may be worth searching for another pediatric care center. Children do not have a long attention span, and if they are in pain, that time only decreases. Pediatric care centers should be prompt and ready to see children to avoid unnecessary distress.

Finding a Pediatrician

At Centric Urgent Care, we make it a priority to make your little ones feel safe and welcome during their treatment. We're here if you need us.