Pediatrics

When your child has a medical emergency, you want expert care, fast. That is why we have dedicated pediatric emergency rooms for your child's comfort. These departments are staffed 24/7 with pediatric emergency medicine physicians and pediatricians.

If these specialized ERs are not convenient to you, we are also able to deliver emergency care to your child at any of our ER locations.

If needed, your child may be admitted to one of our inpatient units or our pediatric intensive care units (PICU). They will be surrounded by compassionate and skilled teams of pediatricians and pediatric specialists. Our hospitals are also staffed with pediatric hospitalists (doctors who work in the hospitals rather than in private practices) and pediatric nurses certified in pediatric advanced life support.

When your child needs emotional, behavioral or psychiatric care, we provide compassionate children's mental health and wellness programs at Dominion Hospital, as well as child and adolescent mental health care at Chippenham Hospital. These programs offer both inpatient and outpatient behavioral health for kids and teens, with the goal of giving them the tools and support they need for their grow and heal.

The pediatric orthopedics program at Chippenham Hospital is managed by board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric orthopedic specialists. These specialists diagnose and treat a range of orthopedic injuries and conditions in children, from broken bones to complex spine disorders.

Our pediatric rehabilitation specialists have experience helping children of all ages and all diagnoses reach their full physical potential. To do that, we use a range of outpatient rehabilitation services, including physical therapy.

You will also find specialty programs at our hospitals for:

• Pediatric cardiology
• Pediatric sports medicine
• Pediatric surgery

We know that a hospital stay can be a difficult experience for children and their parents. We will do everything we can to help your child feel safe and secure.

Before your child’s stay

You can help prepare your child by talking about what to expect in the hospital. Let them know that you will be with them whenever possible and when you can’t, they will always be cared for by a responsible adult, such as a nurse or doctor. Encourage them to ask you and the medical team questions and explain that the team will also ask them questions.

Involve siblings in your discussion, so everyone has a chance to share concerns and questions. Make sure to share other information you have, such as when your child will be coming home.

What to bring to the hospital

Help your child choose what to pack and encourage him or her to bring a favorite toy, picture or other item from home for comfort. Include a bathrobe, slippers or socks and personal toiletries, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste and shampoo.

Bring a list of your child’s current medications and immunization record to the hospital as well as the Patient History form, if you received this in the mail. If you have difficulty answering any of the questions, a healthcare provider will help you complete the form when you come to the hospital.

At the hospital

Our pediatric care team communicates and works with you on a daily basis. We share all test results and treatment options, so you can make informed decisions about your child's care. We encourage you to participate in your child's treatment. We teach you the skills you need, such as changing dressings or administering medications, to help your little one heal.

Pediatric hospitalists

Your pediatric hospitalist provides regular progress updates to your child’s pediatrician throughout their treatment. The hospitalist transitions care back to your child's primary care physician after discharge from the hospital.

Family-friendly pediatric units

Our pediatric units are designed around your family's comfort. You have a private room with Wi-Fi, phones and flat-panel TVs. You may visit your child 24/7, and, if needed, we can accommodate your sleeping arrangements.

We also provide kitchens equipped with a microwave and refrigerator. Coffee is available upon request. Additionally, you and your family can play games, color, read and watch age-appropriate TV and videos in our playrooms.

Going home

Preparing for your child’s discharge from the hospital requires careful planning. Our hospital staff will help you understand how to care for your child at home during recovery and obtain any additional services or equipment that you may need.

A car seat is required by law for children under 40 pounds. If you do not have one, please let your nurse or case manager know and they will help you get one.