Pediatric Emergencies: 24hr Medical Care for Kids at BJU

Beijing United Family Hospital's (BJU's) Pediatric Emergency Room is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Not sure how or when to use our emergency services? Read on as BJU Pediatrician Dr. Jet answers your questions.

If my child needs urgent medical attention, what should I do? Do I have to call the ER before I go?

If your child needs urgent medical attention, they will need an immediate visit to the ER. Calling the ER before coming will delay your child’s medical care, and so there is no need to call us before you come. If you have time, however, you may call when you are on your way to the hospital so that the ER knows what to be prepared for – but this is not required. 

Call our 24hr emergency hotline at 5927 7120. You may also call this number if your child has a medical incident and you're not sure if it's an emergency. 

What kinds of medical emergencies can BJU’s Pediatric ER handle?

BJU’s Pediatric ER, particularly the well-trained and experienced pediatricians, can definitely tackle practically all types of pediatric emergencies, from simple cases to complicated and emergency problems. We are also fortunate to have very competent and skilled nurses to assist the pediatricians in the ER. 

In what emergency situations should I take my child to BJU’s Pediatric ER?

You can go to the ER any time you want. If you are not comfortable with your daughter or son’s medical condition, whether or not it’s an emergency situation, you can go and see – especially if it's outside of clinic hours. For any condition that makes you uncomfortable, you can always bring your child to the ER. So far, based on my experience at BJU, we can handle practically every situation that we have seen. We are well-equipped and well-staffed. 

If my child is too young to speak, will the Pediatric ER still be able to help them?

Most definitely. Pediatricians in BJU’s ER are well-trained to tackle pediatric patients from any pediatric age group. As long as there is someone in the family who knows the information and clinical history of the child, we will be able to address the concerns. 

What are some of the most common reasons that kids need to go to the ER?

The common reasons why kids need to be brought to the ER are fever, seizure, vomiting, diarrhea, rashes, cough, colds, and even accidents. 

It can sometimes be hard to tell when a child hurts themselves or needs medical attention. What symptoms do you recommend all parents look out for that show that their child may need urgent medical attention? 

Cases of accidental falls or head trauma, persistent vomiting, loss of consciousness, seizure, or even an unwitnessed accident may necessitate a visit to the ER. Obvious evidence of lacerations or bleeding definitely requires a visit to the ER. 

Are there any basic first-aid skills that you recommend all parents learn so they can help their kids in case of a medical emergency? 

Of course, the most important thing to do is to rush the child immediately to the ER. But, if it will take some time to bring them in, here are some tips: 

A. Always maintain the child’s ABC (airways, breathing, circulation); 

B. For patients having an active seizure, try to use a tongue guard to avoid biting of the tongue by the child;

C. For bleeding/lacerations, apply direct pressure to the wound to lessen the bleeding;

D. For choking episodes, do the Heimlich maneuver; and

E. For neck and back injuries, try to immobilize the child. 

Dr. Jet is BJU's new Pediatrician. He speaks English. To make an appointment with him, please call the BJU Service Center at 4008-919191. To reach our emergency hotline, please call 5927 7120.

• Want to learn more about Dr. Jet? Read our Q&A with him here!

• Not sure how to call an ambulance in Beijing? Study up and add these emergency numbers to your phone!

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