Our new 10-bed free-standing pediatric ED is located in a separate area away from adult patients and now has walls between patients for greater privacy. It will feature its own check-in and lobby areas, with final construction of those areas completed in October.

Previously, our pediatric-friendly ED at Shea offered seven beds nested within the main emergency department. Bays were curtained areas, which weren’t exclusively used for pediatric patients.

“Our treatments and approach to treatment are specific to children and are based on research and evidence-based practices related to kids, which you don’t always get in a regular ER,” said Pediatric Services Medical Director John Pope, MD.

As one example, ultrasounds and other modalities are used instead of X-rays when possible. This reduces a child’s exposure to radiation.