The following frequently asked questions will help you understand more about your visit to Rady Children’s Urgent Care Center:
What happens when you arrive?
You will be greeted by a receptionist and then evaluated by one of our pediatric-trained nurses. We strive to meet all of the cultural needs of our patients.
Please talk to the nurse before giving your child anything to eat or drink. Some tests and medicines can only be given on an empty stomach. If your child does eat or drink something, it may delay treatment.
How long will the wait be?
In our Urgent Care centers and our Sam S. and Rose Stein Emergency Care Center, your child will be assessed to determine the order they will be seen. Children are treated based on need, not on the order in which they arrive. The more seriously ill or injured child will receive top priority.
Who will see your child?
When it is your child’s turn, an assessment will be made in two stages: First, you will meet your child’s nurse who will examine your child and ask more questions. Then, a board-certified pediatric physician will continue the examination and coordinate your child’s treatment. In some cases, a physician may decide your child needs to see another specialist.
What happens when you go home?
After your child has been treated, you will be given printed discharge instructions. You may be asked to visit your family doctor or to make a follow-up appointment in one of Rady Children’s clinics. If your child does not have a doctor, Rady Children’s Healthcare Referral Service, at 800-788-9029, will help you find a pediatrician in your neighborhood.
In case of a life-threatening emergency, dial 9-1-1. If your child’s condition gets worse or problems develop when you get home, call your pediatrician.