For many people, treatment for non-life-threatening health issues requires visiting the local urgent care clinic. These clinics provide services for problems such as allergic reactions, animal bites, cuts and burns, ear infections, colds and flu, and strep throat, with some offering care specifically for children. Known as pediatric urgent care centers, learn what makes them so important here. 

The Importance of Pediatric Urgent Care Centers

How They Are Different From Other Medical Clinics

Pediatric doctors undergo special training to learn how to deal with injured and sick children effectively. They are able to communicate with kids using gentle tones and friendly, cheerful manners, which helps children feel calm instead of scared or anxious. Their offices frequently feature colorful wall art, toys, books, and stickers and prizes for “being brave” to help children feel even better about being at the doctor. 

These doctors also use various coping methods so children are not as scared or stressed about painful procedures, such as stitches and vaccinations. Pediatric physicians might sing to distract their young patients, ask them questions about school, or make jokes. If a child is particularly distressed, the pediatric doctor may distract them with new toys they can hold while receiving their shot or other procedure. 

The Child-Friendly Services They Provide  

Opting for a pediatric urgent care center ensures your child receives services meant for younger patients. For example, if your child needs an x-ray for a broken bone, the doctor uses a lower dose of radiation that won’t tax their little body. If they require an IV, the physician uses a numbing gel to prevent pain and possibly trauma. 

There is also no risk of the doctor using powerful sedatives or administering antibiotics unnecessarily, such as for a viral infection. Antibiotics kill bacteria, not viruses, and prescribing them too often risks antibiotic resistance. This is problematic in the event that your child needs antibiotics for a bacterial infection. Pediatric doctors take these and related responsibilities seriously to help your child grow up healthy and strong. 

For pediatric urgent care services, contact HDR Healthcare Network. Serving New York City, including Upper Manhattan and the Bronx, this medical center provides a diverse range of services for patients of all ages. Call (929) 256-5005 today to make an appointment or learn more about services online.