There is always a dilemma when a neonate or a child reaches the emergency ward— should the child be admitted or should he be given first aid and followed up in the Outpatient Department? When a child is brought to the hospital, the history of illness is always given by parents or caretakers in the case of neonates or toddlers. Unless leading questions are asked, the history may often be confusing. Common Complaints Seen in Emergency: Most often, children are brought to the emergency ward with complaints such as: 1. Sudden development of high-grade fever (103–104°F) 2. Seizures, with or without fever 3. Accidental injuries and burns 4.
Sudden ingestion of foreign body 5. Neonatal jaundice 6. Acute gastroenteritis, vomiting, or loose motions 7. Respiratory distress 8. Poisoning 9. Vague or non-specific symptoms Investigations may take time, but the main dilemma remains: should the child…