The ER Nurse’s Guide to Common Childhood Injuries: When to Treat at Home and When to Head to the ER

As an ER nurse, I’ve treated countless childhood injuries—from minor scrapes to serious fractures. Kids are naturally adventurous, and accidents happen. While some injuries can be managed at home, others require immediate medical attention. This guide will help parents recognize when an injury is minor and when a trip to the ER is necessary.

1. Cuts and Scrapes

Treat at Home: If the wound is small, shallow, and stops bleeding within a few minutes of applying pressure, it can likely be treated at home. Clean the wound with mild soap and water, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover it with a bandage.

Go to the ER: If the cut is deep, gaping, or won’t stop bleeding after 10 minutes of firm pressure, it may require stitches. Also, seek medical care if an object is embedded in the wound or if there are signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling, pus).

2. Head Injuries

Treat at Home: If your child has a minor bump on the head but is alert, responsive, and acting normally, apply a cold compress and monitor them for a few hours. Mild headaches and small bruises are common.

Go to the ER: Seek emergency care if your child loses consciousness, has repeated vomiting, appears confused, or has difficulty walking or speaking. These could be signs of a concussion or a more serious brain injury.

3. Burns

Treat at Home: First-degree burns (redness without blisters) can be treated by running cool water over the area for 10-15 minutes, then applying aloe vera or a burn ointment. Keep the burn clean and loosely covered.

Go to the ER: If the burn is larger than a child’s palm, causes blisters (second-degree), or appears white/charred (third-degree), immediate medical attention is required. Facial or airway burns also require emergency care.

4. Broken Bones and Sprains

Treat at Home: If your child can move the injured area without severe pain or deformity, it may just be a sprain. Apply ice, elevate the limb, and use compression with a bandage.

Go to the ER: If there is visible swelling, bruising, deformity, or your child refuses to put weight on the injured limb, seek medical care. X-rays may be needed to rule out a fracture.

5. Ingesting Foreign Objects

Treat at Home: If your child swallows a small, smooth object (such as a coin) and is not choking, monitor their stool to see if it passes naturally.

Go to the ER: Seek immediate medical attention if your child is choking, has difficulty breathing, or swallows a battery, magnet, or sharp object. These can cause life-threatening internal injuries.

Final Thoughts

Accidents are a normal part of childhood, but knowing how to respond can make a huge difference. If you’re ever uncertain about the severity of an injury, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice.

Important Disclaimer

The information in this post is based on my experience as an ER nurse and is intended for educational purposes only. It should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are ever in doubt or feel uncomfortable managing your child’s injury at home, consult your pediatrician or seek emergency care. Every child and situation is unique, and caregivers should always use their best judgment.