How to Pack a Go-Bag for Your Child’s Unexpected ED or Urgent Care Visits Posted on August 18, 2020 If it might be an emergency, don’t wait! Connecticut Children’s Emergency Department (ED) is always open, and our experts provide evening and weekend pediatric urgent care in Farmington. Pack a “go-bag” now, so it’s ready when you need it. Want more articles like this from pediatric experts you trust? Sign up for our newsletter. Subscribe Packing Tips If you have more than one child, clearly label whose bag is whose. Go through the bag every three months or so to check expiration dates on snacks, etc. You won’t be able to pack some items ahead of time, like your child’s favorite toy. Make a list of those items and their locations in your home, and tape it to the top of the bag. Urgent Care or ED: What to Pack in Your Child’s Go-Bag Maintenance medicine (for example, asthma medicine or inhaler) Copies of identification for you and your child Copies of insurance cards Primary care pediatrician contact info List of emergency contact numbers Your child’s vaccination and allergy records *To access your child’s health records right from your phone, sign up for MyChart Masks for you and your child (if they’re over the age of 2), plus a bag or container to store them when not in use *We also have face masks available for you Extra face masks in a resealable bag or container, in case the masks you and your child are wearing break or get dirty Hand sanitizer *Our ED and Urgent Care clinic are stocked with plenty of hand sanitizer, but it’s a good idea to keep a personal bottle too Wet wipes Tissues Diaper bag, if needed, with baby supplies: bottles, burp cloths, teething toys, etc. Healthy, nonperishable snacks like granola bars or apple sauce packets Bottle of water (and sippy cup or special cup, if your child uses one) Comfort items for your child, like a book, fidget spinner, blanket, small toy or stuffed animal *Let older kids help you decide If your child has sensory sensitivities, additional comfort items like noise-canceling headphones or ear plugs, baseball cap, sunglasses or eye mask ED Only: In Case Your Child’s ED Visit Turns Into a Hospital Stay Chargers for all phones and electronics Activities for your child like a sticker pack or electronic device Comfort items and activities for yourself Toothbrushes and hygiene kits Change of clothes Pair of pajamas Extra socks and underwear When Your Child Needs Medical Attention, Seek Care Right Away Not sure where to go – the emergency room, urgent care center or pediatrician? Here’s a list to help you decide. You might also like: Prepare for Care Kit 24 Questions for Your Teen to Ask Their Doctor What to Do About Your Child’s Fear of Needles The 10 Most Common Sports Injuries in Kids and Young Athletes
