Paediatric Emergencies

One topic that we all wish to keep at arm's length but must be prepared for is paediatric emergencies.

With their boundless energy and fearless explorations, kids sometimes find themselves in situations requiring immediate medical attention. The good news is that Dr Ramsunder is here for you at short notice, ensuring your child receives timely, effective care when it matters most.

What counts as a paediatric emergency?

An emergency can strike fear into the heart of any parent, but what exactly constitutes a paediatric emergency? Here are some situations where immediate medical help is needed:

• High Fever: A fever of about 38℃ in newborns or above 40℃ in older children.
• Difficulty Breathing: Wheezing, laboured breathing, or turning blue can signify a respiratory emergency.
• Seizures: Especially if it's a first-time occurrence or lasts longer than 5 minutes.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms like facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives spreading across the body.
• Serious Injuries: Think of fractures, concussions, burns, or deep cuts that may require stitches.
• Dehydration: Symptoms include a parched mouth, no tears when crying, and not urinating for 8 hours or more.
• Signs of Poisoning: Chemical burns around the mouth, unresponsiveness, or seizures.

How we handle paediatric emergencies

When you arrive at the ER, Dr Ramsunder brings a wealth of experience in paediatric emergencies, combined with a dash of empathy and a sprinkle of quick decision-making. Here's how she approaches different emergency situations:

• High Fevers: After a quick but thorough examination, she may recommend specific antipyretic medication and run tests to rule out bacterial infections.
• Respiratory Distress: She applies respiratory support techniques, including oxygen therapy or ventilators, to ensure your child can breathe easily.
• Seizures: Dr Ramsunder provides prompt pharmacological intervention to control the seizure while running diagnostic tests to determine its cause.
• Allergic Reactions: She'll administer life-saving antihistamines or epinephrine shots while keeping your child's airways open.
• Injury Management: She's got it covered, from stitching up cuts to setting fractured bones. If necessary, she collaborates with surgical teams for complicated injuries.

What to do in a paediatric emergency

Getting expert assistance is essential, but there are also ways you as a parent can be prepared and assist your child in the duration of waiting for emergency assistance:

• Have emergency numbers on hand
• Keep a basic first aid kit in your home and car
• Educate your child on what an emergency is and what to do. Role-playing can make it less scary and more of a learning moment.

Emergencies are frightening, but having an experienced paediatrician like Dr Ramsunder on your side makes all the difference. Consider this the safety net beneath your family's tightrope of life. Dr Ramsunder provides medical care and peace of mind that your little one is in the most capable hands, even in the most trying situations.

Contact us on 066 434 1383 in an emergency.