• 978.354.2750 

Triage

When you first arrive a triage nurse will assess your chlld's condition. The nurse will ask you about any symptoms, and/or what may have led to the condition (such as an accident). The nurse will also ask about your child’s medical history, including medications, allergies and immunizations. He or she will record your child’s temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and weight at this time.

Your child may be given medication for fever or pain and, if necessary, may have X-rays taken. After the triage evalution and any tests are complete, you may return to the waiting room or to an exam room if one is available. Your child may not be permitted to eat or drink until he or she is seen by the doctor. Please check with the triage nurse before feeding anything to your child.

Registration

After the triage nurse has evaluated your child, you will need to register your child as an Emergency Department patient. The registration clerk will ask for your child’s name, address, health insurance and pediatrician. The Emergency Department treats all patients, regardless of insurance or ability to pay for treatment.

Waiting times

One of the most stressful parts of an Emergency Department visit for children and their families is the wait to see a physician. Because many pediatricians’ offices are closed on weekends, evenings and holidays, the Emergency Department may be more crowded during these times. 

Waiting times increase if a seriously ill or injured patient arrives and must be seen ahead of others whose condition is not as critical. If you think your child’s condition has worsened while you are waiting, please ask the triage nurse to evaluate your child again. We do our best to see all patients as promptly as possible.

While you are waiting

Books, toys, paper and crayons are available in the waiting room. In addition, we have a child life specialist available during peak hours to help explain treatments to children and ease fears.

Read more about our Emergency Departments