Emergency

Is it an emergency? When to visit the emergency room vs. Eugene Pediatrics

Fact: About 80% of the time a child enters an emergency room in the U.S. it’s an unnecessary visit.

The emergency room is for true medical emergencies, such as:

  • Life-threatening injuries
  • Severe inability to breathe
  • Drug overdoses
  • Suicide attempt/unable to keep child safe

In a true emergency, call 911!

The emergency room is NOT the best choice if your child is experiencing:

  • Ear pain
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Cough
  • Rashes
  • Abdominal pain
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Head/neck injuries if your child is conscious

Why should you call/visit Eugene Pediatrics instead of going to the ER in most situations?

We are board-certified pediatric specialists most qualified to handle your child’s medical needs.

  • We know your child’s medical history, which helps us know how best to treat your child’s current health problems – the ER doesn’t have that information.
  • We have your child’s medications and allergies on file so we can be sure the medicines we choose are the safest and best choice.
  • ER wait times can be hours long – we will make you an appointment, usually the same day you call us with a concern.
  • We have a comprehensive care team for you and your child – medical, mental health and social work at one clinic that’s dedicated to your child’s care.
  • We can schedule SAME-DAY VISITS for your child’s urgent medical needs.

We care about your kids and we want to help. Call us anytime, 24 hours a day at 541-HUG-KIDS (541-484-5437). Someone will answer and a medical professional will return your call even when our clinic is closed.

Emergency Help Lines

Mental Health Crisis Response  1-888-989-9990
Looking Glass Youth Hotline  541-689-3111
CAHOOTS  541-687-4000
Poison Control 1-800-222-1222

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