6 TexasHealthMansfield.org Collaboration in critical moments May 17–23 is National EMS Week. Here’s to our amazing partners! Many signs can indicate an emergency, requiring a call to 911, including: ● Trouble breathing “Signs of trouble breathing in a younger child include nostrils flaring, grunting or the chest muscles retracting,” says Michelle Singh, PA-C. “If they’re older, they may now not be able to speak in full sentences.” ● Head injuries followed by vomiting or fainting ● Severe allergic reactions or bleeding ● Seizures ● Fever of 100.4 degrees or higher in babies under three months Urgent care is for issues that are not lifethreatening but that need attention when same-day primary care isn’t available. Think flu-like symptoms, rashes or similar discomforts. Primary care is for checkups, vaccinations and illnesses that can wait for an appointment. Minor illnesses can often be managed at home while you decide whether medical care is needed. Michelle suggests these care tips for some common issues: Sore throats. Warm saltwater gargles or Pedialyte ice pops can soothe discomfort. Coughs. Offer your child a steamy shower or a teaspoon of honey (for children older than one year) mixed with warm water. Fever. Try alternating acetaminophen and ibuprofen or using cool baths. If symptoms worsen, don’t improve or you’re not sure where to go, contact your child’s provider for advice. “Parents, you have good intuition,” Michelle says. “If it’s not normal for your child, take them in.” Emergency care takes teamwork. That’s why Texas Health Hospital Mansfield partners with local emergency medical services (EMS) providers, including Mansfield Fire Department. “We work with EMS to ensure seamless emergency care from the scene, to the hospital, through long-term care,” says EMS Liaison Keith Jones, AS, NREMT-P, ASM. EMS teams provide life support in the field and then share information with Emergency Department teams to prepare them. “This reduces delays for conditions such as heart attacks and strokes, when every moment counts,” Keith says. EMS professionals and first responders are trained clinicians who make lifesaving decisions every day, Keith says. They also team up with Texas Health Mansfield for community outreach programs, including CPR training. Emergency, urgent or primary care for your child? 24/7 emergency care Learn more about the Texas Health Mansfield emergency care team by scanning the QR code. “EMS professionals’ and first responders’ dedication goes far beyond emergency response,” he says. “They work long, demanding hours; train continually to stay current on best practices; and often serve as the calm, compassionate presence during some of the most difficult moments in people’s lives.”
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