If you have children, it’s bound to happen. They get sick after hours, on weekends, holidays and your go-to pediatrician’s office isn’t open. So, what you do if your child is in need of medical care off hours? We’ve found ourselves in this predicament many times and have plenty of tips for surviving an urgent care visit with a sick, tired child. Hopefully these tips will make your next urgent care visit smoother.
What to Bring to Urgent Care with Kids
Check in online
Most urgent cares take walk-ins, but if you can reserve a spot online, you’ll save yourself sometime in the waiting room. Children’s Mercy Kansas City offers Save my Spot for their Urgent Care locations.
Don’t forget your ID and health insurance cards
Even if you’ve been there before, they are going to ask for these items, so make sure you have them in your wallet. I’ve grabbed the wrong purse before and forgot they weren’t in there. I like to keep pictures of them in my phone, too, just in case the forms are online and you can upload them easily.
Dress in layers
Depending on the time of year, it’s a good idea to grab a hoodie in case the rooms have a draft. I’m always cold and wish I had one.
Bring your child’s favorite stuffy, blanket or comfort item
It’s helpful to remember your child’s comfort item of choice. My daughter loves her blankie and elephant, so I always try to remember at least one. They may be scared, tired and just generally feel crummy so anything to help soothe them is a good idea.
For little ones
Your diaper bag is probably packed, but grab an extra pacifier, bottle and food pouches just in case. A change of clothes is never a bad idea, either!
For you and bigger kids
Grab water and a snack for you. It never hurts to have sustenance while you wait. It’s a good idea to wait to see a doctor before letting your child have a snack as sometimes they are not allowed to eat or drink before a potential procedure. Children’s Mercy does have snack and juice available if needed for the patient.
Don’t forget the chargers
Phone, tablet, Apple Watch… they all need power, so grab a few extra chargers just in case you hit low battery mode while you’re there!
Entertainment
Books, coloring books or tablets to watch a show or movie can be a good distraction from the waiting time.
Ask about their comfort measures
Urgent Care or Emergency Room?
Trying to decide where to go? Children’s Mercy Kansas City has a great resource to download for reference. Find the closest urgent care or emergency rooms here.
