A children’s hospital is a medical institution specialized in providing healthcare for children and adolescents from the moment of birth until they reach 18 years of age.
Both in a children’s hospital and in a pediatric center, there are medical professionals, equipment, and services specially adapted to meet the specific needs of pediatric patients, and the main goal is to provide accurate diagnoses, effective treatments, and a child-friendly environment.
Children’s specialty hospital
A children’s hospital offers a wide range of medical specialties to guarantee comprehensive care for pediatric patients, including:
- General pediatrics: the foundation of pediatric care, responsible for managing routine checkups, vaccinations, and treatment of common childhood illnesses.
- Neonatology: focused on the care of newborns, especially those who are premature or have complex medical conditions.
- Pediatric cardiology: treats heart conditions in children such as congenital heart disease and rhythm disorders.
- Pediatric oncology: dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of various childhood cancers.
- Pediatric pulmonology: allows the diagnosis and treatment of simple or complex respiratory diseases.
- Pediatric neurology: manages disorders that affect the nervous system.
In addition to these specialties, a children’s hospital provides access to many other specialists, such as pediatric hematologists, pediatric infectious disease specialists, pediatric dermatologists, pediatric gastroenterologists, and pediatric surgeons, to mention just a few.
All of these specialties work together to address the complex needs of both pediatric patients and their families.
Pediatric vital signs
Monitoring vital signs is an essential component of pediatric care, as it allows evaluation of the child’s general health status and early detection of potential problems.
Due to this, children’s hospitals use techniques and devices adapted to the physical characteristics of pediatric patients.
The main vital signs monitored include:
- Heart rate: measured using stethoscopes, pulse oximeters, or multiparameter monitors.
- Respiratory rate: measured by observing chest movements or using special sensors.
- Body temperature: measured with different thermometers such as digital, infrared, or rectal, each used depending on the child’s age and clinical situation.
- Blood pressure: measured with equipment specifically sized for the child’s arm.
- Blood oxygen (SpO2): obtained using pediatric pulse oximeters, which provide data often related to respiratory problems and critical conditions.
Pediatricians near my location
When it comes to children’s health, it is important to choose pediatricians located close to the child’s residence, which often means they are based in children’s hospitals.
There are multiple reasons for this, such as quick access to medical care in emergencies. Having a nearby pediatrician makes consultations easier and avoids long trips that could worsen the child’s condition.
In addition, ongoing contact with a pediatrician allows detailed monitoring of the child’s development and medical conditions.
If located within a children’s hospital, there is also the possibility that pediatricians will work together with other specialists such as surgeons, psychologists, or therapists to provide comprehensive care.
A children’s hospital represents a crucial space to ensure the health and well-being of children, thanks to its specialized and multidisciplinary approach.
At the ABC Medical Center’s Pediatrics Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
Fuentes
Kids Health, Cigna, MSD Manuals
