I’m a Pediatrician, Yet I Felt Fear When My Child Needed Emergency Care

February 2015

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My eldest daughter was just 15 months old during Valentine’s week when she fell ill. After a few days, I recognized it was likely a virus, possibly RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) given the illnesses circulating at her daycare. RSV is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects the respiratory system. While most children experience mild symptoms like a cold, in some cases, it can lead to severe complications like pneumonia or bronchiolitis.

As a pediatrician and neonatologist, I had witnessed the serious effects of RSV on many young patients. Still, my daughter had no significant health history, leading me to believe she would be fine. My husband, aware of my concerns about RSV, asked how I’d know if her condition was deteriorating. My response was simple: “I’ll just know.”

That evening at 6 p.m., I felt that knowing. I insisted we head to the hospital immediately, interrupting my husband’s business call. He was taken aback but complied without argument as we rushed to the car. I urged him to speed, even suggesting he run red lights.

Upon arrival at the emergency room, I was engulfed in fear and uncertainty. This was my child, in the very hospital where I worked. Familiar with the staff and procedures, I still felt overwhelmed. I knew when her oxygen levels dipped into the 70s, additional oxygen was being administered for her safety. Despite the assurance of good care, I was terrified.

She was admitted to the Pediatric ICU, where I was relieved to see a colleague as her attending physician. His presence provided a sense of comfort, and I felt a bit more at ease knowing she was in capable hands. After three days, she was discharged home on oxygen and made a full recovery.

Fast forward to January 2020, and I found myself in a similar situation with my son, who exhibited symptoms reminiscent of my daughter’s earlier illness. With the girls already asleep, my husband stayed home while I took him to the ER. This time, it wasn’t RSV or flu but another virus that required him to receive oxygen. We were admitted for IV fluids and monitoring.

Although I had experienced the hospital stay with my daughter, I felt less anxiety during this visit. However, the moment the doctor entered the room, a wave of calm washed over me. I knew we were in good hands.

Essential Tips for Managing Hospital Stays

So, why share this experience? To help other parents navigate the stressful world of hospital stays with their little ones, here are my essential tips for managing the situation:

1. Seek Familiar Faces: Comfort can come from seeing someone you know, whether it’s a nurse or doctor who has cared for your child before. This can ease the anxiety of being in an unfamiliar environment.
2. Know What to Expect: In the ER, sick children are triaged based on severity, which means you may wait. Be prepared to repeat your child’s medical history multiple times. Patience is crucial, as medical teams are working diligently to assess and treat your child.
3. Sleep When You Can: Hospitals are noisy places, making it difficult to rest. Bring a comfortable pillow, wear cozy clothes, and whenever your child sleeps, take that opportunity to rest yourself.
4. Entertainment is Key: Pack your phone or tablet for some distractions. Books or magazines can also provide a much-needed escape from the hospital atmosphere.
5. Order Takeout: Hospital food can quickly lose its appeal. Ask the nurses for local takeout options and don’t forget to stay hydrated with your water bottle.
6. Accept Help: It’s okay to say yes when people offer assistance. Whether it’s someone to watch your other children or bring you coffee, taking help can lighten your burden.
7. Advocate for Your Child: Ensure you understand everything happening with your child. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request clarification about treatment plans.
8. Take It Day by Day: Each day in the hospital will have its ups and downs. Focus on the positives and remain flexible, as children’s needs can change rapidly.

Hospital stays are undoubtedly daunting and exhausting, but with patience and preparation, you can navigate them more smoothly. While caring for your child, don’t forget to look after yourself too. To read more about pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource.

In summary, while being a pediatrician provided me insight into the medical world, it didn’t shield me from the emotions of being a parent in a hospital setting. The experience highlighted the importance of self-care and the need for support during such trying times.