Expert tips from Fountain Hills Emergency Room and Medical Center
Visiting the emergency room can be stressful for both kids and parents — especially when it’s unexpected. But with a little preparation and calm guidance, you can help your child feel safe, informed, and more confident during the experience.
At Fountain Hills Emergency Room and Medical Center, we understand how important it is to ease your child’s fears and help parents feel empowered. Here’s a parent-friendly guide to preparing your child for an ER visit.
🧠 Why Preparation Matters
An ER visit isn’t just about medical care — it’s also about emotional safety. Children who know what to expect tend to:
- Stay calmer and cooperate better
- Ask fewer questions out of fear
- Feel safer with their caregivers
- Have reduced anxiety after the visit
When parents prepare emotionally and practically, the whole experience becomes smoother.
1. Talk With Your Child Before the Visit
Use simple, honest language. Tell them:
- “The doctors and nurses are here to help you feel better.”
- “You might get some tests that are quick and safe.”
- Emphasize that it’s okay to ask questions and tell caregivers if something hurts.
Avoid scary medical terms — instead, focus on feelings and support.
2. Listen to Their Feelings
Ask gentle questions like:
- “How are you feeling about going to the ER?”
- “Is there anything you’re worried about?”
- “What makes you feel better when you’re scared?”
Validating their emotions — without dismissing them — builds trust and calm.
3. Bring Comfort Items
A favorite toy, blanket, or stuffed animal can be comforting in a new place. These items:
- Give a sense of familiarity
- Distract from procedures
- Help your child self-soothe
Even headphones with calming music or an audiobook can be comforting.
4. Explain What Might Happen (In Kid-Friendly Terms)
Let your child know the basics:
| Situation | Simple Explanation |
|---|---|
| Doctor or nurse examining | “They’ll look at where it hurts and help you feel better.” |
| Temperature or blood pressure checks | “We’re just checking to see how your body is doing.” |
| X-ray or scan | “It’s like a special camera that takes pictures inside your body.” |
Keep it brief and reassuring.
5. Stay Calm — Your Child Takes Cues From You
Kids look to adults for emotional cues. If you stay composed:
- They feel safer
- Anxiety lowers naturally
- They trust the process
Take deep breaths, speak softly, and hold their hand if they want comfort.
6. Pack a “Go Bag” for Emergencies
Being prepared helps you stay calm. Include:
✔ Insurance cards
✔ Identification
✔ List of medications/allergies
✔ Child’s favorite comfort items
✔ Snacks & water
✔ Chargers & entertainment (tablet, coloring books)
Having these organized in advance saves time and reduces stress.
7. Ask Questions — It’s Okay!
Encourage your child to ask questions, but don’t pressure them. You can ask the medical team:
- “What will happen first?”
- “How long should we expect to wait?”
- “Is this going to hurt much?”
Our team and staff are here to help — asking questions helps everyone feel more comfortable.
8. Praise Your Child for Being Brave
After the visit, acknowledge their courage:
- “I’m proud of how calm you were.”
- “You did a great job telling the nurse how you felt.”
Positive reinforcement helps reduce future fear.
🧡 Final Thoughts
An emergency room visit doesn’t have to be scary. With preparation, clear communication, and emotional support, you can make the experience as smooth and reassuring as possible for your child.
At Fountain Hills Emergency Room and Medical Center, we’re here to care for your whole family — body and heart.
📣 Need Immediate Care? We’re Open 24/7
Whether it’s a sudden illness or unexpected injury, you can count on us for compassionate, expert emergency care when you need it most.
Emergency Room : (602) 671-7990
Billing Department : (480) 339-4825
Medical Clinic : (602) 671-7981
Fountain Hills Emergency Room and Medical Center
9700 N. Saguaro Boulevard Fountain Hills,
AZ 85268
Conveniently located to serve Fountain Hills and surrounding areas with 24/7 emergency care.