Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should I Choose Brenner Children’s Emergency Department (ED)?

Brenner Children’s ED accesses the only Level I Pediatric Trauma Center in North Carolina and is the only pediatric emergency department in the region. Each year, we treat more than 29,000 children for all types of common and complex conditions, such as broken bones, traumatic accidents, seizures and dehydration. 

Our pediatric ED team is made up of doctors trained in both pediatrics and emergency medicine, nurse practitioners, technicians and other health care professionals, all specially trained to provide immediate, customized care for your child. At Brenner, you can be assured that you’re receiving the best possible treatment for any emergent condition your child is facing. You’ll always see a doctor, who will work with you and our pediatric ED specialists, if needed, to provide outstanding care for your child.

What is the pediatric ED phone number?

Our phone number is 336-713-9200.

When are you open?

The Brenner pediatric ED is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

When should I call an ambulance/911 for my child?

You should call an ambulance for your child whenever you feel you are facing a medical emergency. It is always a good idea to utilize ambulance services as opposed to driving to the ED yourself when facing a severe emergent medical condition. This will ensure you will safely arrive at the ED. Specifically, you should take immediate action when your child is:

• Unconscious or lifeless
• Not breathing or having major difficulty breathing
• Facing severe pain or a major injury, especially injuries to the head or neck
• Bleeding non-stop
• Possibly poisoned
• Burned severely
• Having a seizure
• Having difficulty waking up or displaying unusual behavior

Please make sure to provide the emergency staff with the following information; try to speak clearly and slowly:

• Your name
• Your phone number
• Your address
• The location of the injured child and a phone number, if relevant
• The specific medical emergency

What do I need to bring with me to the pediatric ED?

If possible, please bring the following when you come to the Brenner pediatric ED:

• A list of your child’s medications and allergies to medications
• Your child’s medical records
• Any imaging studies related to your child’s medical condition, placed on a CD or other electronic storage device; if you can, please bring your original studies with you

Read more suggestions of what you should bring with you to the pediatric ED.

What can I expect when I get to the pediatric ED?

Because Brenner’s pediatric ED is designed especially for children, you’ll be received in a warm and comfortable atmosphere, where the treatment of your child’s illness or trauma is top priority.

When you first come to the pediatric ED, you should check in at the front desk. You will then be seen by a triage nurse. Once in a patient room, your child will be examined by an emergency doctor. Tests or procedures will be reviewed. After a full examination and treatment, your doctor will discuss with you whether your child is ready to be discharged or should be admitted into the hospital for further treatment. The doctor will discuss with you in detail all steps for after-care if your child is discharged, or the next steps to be taken if your child is admitted into the hospital.

What other resources do you have?

There are a number of resources available for patients and their families at the Brenner pediatric ED, including counselors, social workers, child life specialists, onsite interpreters and a sexual assault nurse, all of whom are on call 24/7.