Visiting: What to Expect
The Pediatric Acute Wound Service (PAWS) is designed to complement your primary care physician’s services. During your first visit you will meet with a clinical staff member for consultation and medical history evaluation. This examination will aid in identifying the type of wound your child has and the underlying problems causing the wound. After the exam, the PAWS team will establish a treatment plan with you and will provide progress reports to your primary care doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Where is PAWS located?
We are located on the 10th floor of St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
Will my child feel much pain?
Pain management is a priority and every attempt will be made to minimize discomfort. Certain procedures may require sedation. Sedation is medicine that is put in your child’s IV or given by a face mask to reduce anxiety and stress.
Can I be with my child during the entire dressing change?
Two adult caregivers may be present during the dressing change if your child is not receiving sedation. If he/she is receiving sedation, caregivers are escorted to the waiting area until the procedure is completed. This allows the PAWS staff to focus solely on the child receiving sedation.
How long does a dressing change take?
A typical dressing change, including recovery time, takes 1-2 hours depending on what medications your child is given.
Can my child eat or drink before going to PAWS?
Some types of medications given to your child to reduce pain during the dressing change may cause nausea and vomiting. PAWS staff will instruct you whether your child can eat and drink before his/her appointment. NPO, or nothing by mouth, means nothing to eat or drink (including gum or candy). This is very important to decrease the risk of vomiting and choking during the procedure.
