International Nurses Association

When a child comes to the emergency room there is a certain protocol that is followed. The possibility of a case of child abuse must be ruled out when an injury has occurred. What can contribute even more stress is when there are two parents present, they are not together, and not in agreement over the child.  Tensions are elevated, and in the middle of it all can be a child in need of an X-ray or sutures.  How to Handle the Parents Your priority is the patient, the child.  The parents cannot be a major concern until such time the childis examined and is deemed to be ok.  -           Ask, or direct if necessary, the parents to go into a private consult room to have their discussion. Offer to have security accompany them to ensure neither party feels threatened or in danger. Inform the parents they may return once they have settled things and can turn their focus to the child. The parents should not be allowed to remain in the room if they are in a heated discussion.  -