PAWS is designed to complement your primary care physician’s services. During your first visit you will meet with a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) 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
How does my child get an appointment with PAWS?
PAWS is not a walk in clinic. Appointments are usually made through a referring doctor (your pediatrician, emergency room doctor or specialist). We also make appointments by parent/patient request.
Referring physicians can call Children’s Direct at 800.678.HELP (4357) to schedule an appointment.
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 or stress. Our staffed Child Life Specialist is also available to help with distraction and play during procedures.
Can I be with my child during the entire dressing change?
We encourage parents to stay and participate in their child’s care. If your child receives sedation (special medicine given by mask or IV), we will have you wait in the waiting room during the sedated time. This is for safety, and you will return as soon as your child is waking up. An adult must stay in the waiting room with any other children that you bring to your appointment.
How long does a dressing change take?
A typical dressing change, including recovery time, takes 1-2 hours depending on what medications your child received. Occasionally, your visit may require more time.
Can my child eat or drink before going to PAWS?
Your child may be asked to not eat or drink anything for up to 6 hours prior to your scheduled appointment. If these instructions are not followed, it may affect our ability to give needed sedation medication for your child’s procedure and the appointment may need to be rescheduled.
Where is PAWS located?
PAWS has two locations. We are located on the 10th floor of St. Louis Children’s Hospital and at the St. Louis Children’s Specialty Care Center - West County (weekdays only).
