First trauma

Tyler had his first trip to the Emergency Room this afternoon. He was sitting in the recliner chair in the living room watching a PBS Kids TV show, apparently got a little antsy and decided to exit the chair head-first over the side, right onto the magazine rack. All I heard was thump, SCREAM! I was sitting nearby using the computer at the time. I came around the corner as he was standing up and saw the blood running down his face. Not good. I knew immediately he was going to have to get stitches. I went right into First Aid Training mode, found some tissues and began putting pressure on the wound. I got Tyler to calm down so I could use the phone to call Steve and the pediatrician. We were told to head to the Emergency Room, so I started to pack everyone up for the walk over there. Luckily the nanny arrived just then, so I could leave Emma with her (I was supposed to be on my way to coach rowing practice). So I scooped Tyler up and headed over to the hospital. It is surprisingly convenient to be able to walk to the hospital!

In the Emergency Room, before stitches

The staff in the pediatric emergency department at Strong Memorial Hospital was very helpful. It seemed funny to have the third year medical student come in and explain that he was going to gather info and then present it to his Resident or Attending physician. We knew the system already thanks to all of our neighbors. I knew he didn't have his M.D. yet because he had a short coat! We had many different doctors/future doctors come in to ask us questions (everyone was very concerned about the possibility of a concussion) and give care. While we were waiting for the topical anesthetic to work a Radiology Resident asked if he could practice his ultrasound technique on Tyler by looking at his heart and gall bladder. Tyler agreed, and had fun watching his heart beat. His gall bladder was hiding.

The Wound

Steve and I had the soul-crushing job of holding Tyler down while they put the stitches in. It took three stitches to close up the gash. The lidocaine injections were worse than the actual stitches.

All Better

We made it out of the hospital by 4:30PM. Came home to make a quick dinner and have a quiet evening. We actually went over to the playground for a bit, but kept it low key. He will have the stitches for about 5 days. We were given a suture removal kit, so we can take them out ourselves. I think we will get a little professional neighbor help. We just keep changing the bandage and putting more antibiotic ointment on the wound. So far it seems to be healing pretty well. I see a bit of Mederma in our future...