Going to the ER with My Baby - What to Bring
Medically reviewed by Dr. Michael Okonkwo, MD, FAAP · Board-Certified Neonatologist
Content reviewed against published AAP, CDC, Mayo Clinic guidelines
Last reviewed:
If your baby has been diagnosed with or you suspect going to the er with my baby - what to bring, here is what the evidence says.
The short answer
When heading to the ER with your baby, bring essentials: insurance card, your baby's medication list, diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, feeding supplies (bottles, formula, or nursing cover), a pacifier, a comfort item, and a phone charger. If possible, bring a list of your baby's symptoms including when they started, any medications given, and relevant medical history. ER visits can involve long waits, so bring items to keep your baby comfortable. If your baby's condition is life-threatening, call 911 instead of driving.
Key takeaways
- When heading to the ER with your baby, bring essentials: insurance card, your baby's medication list, diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, feeding supplies (bottles, formula, or nursing cover), a pacifier, a comfort item, and a phone charger. If possible, bring a list of your baby's symptoms including when they started, any medications given, and relevant medical history. ER visits can involve long waits, so bring items to keep your baby comfortable. If your baby's condition is life-threatening, call 911 instead of driving.
- Usually normal when: Long wait times for non-emergent conditions (ER visits are triaged by severity)
- Call your doctor if: Call 911 for: difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, seizures, severe bleeding, or if you suspect poisoning
- Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below
“Fever itself is not an illness — rather, it is a sign or symptom that the body is fighting an infection. Fever stimulates certain defenses, such as the white blood cells, which attack and destroy invading bacteria.”
Parents everywhere have the same worry. You are doing the right thing by looking into it.
What Parents Should Know
According to AAP, CDC, Mayo Clinic guidelines, when heading to the ER with your baby, bring essentials: insurance card, your baby's medication list, diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, feeding supplies (bottles, formula, or nursing cover), a pacifier, a comfort item, and a phone charger. If possible, bring a list of your baby's symptoms including when they started, any medications given, and relevant medical history. ER visits can involve long waits, so bring items to keep your baby comfortable. If your baby's condition is life-threatening, call 911 instead of driving. At 0-3 months, any fever over 100.4F (38C) in a baby under 3 months warrants an immediate ER visit. Bring breast pump supplies, bottles, formula, diapers, and a change of clothes for both you and baby. Expect a thorough workup that may include blood tests, urine collection, and possibly a lumbar puncture. Triage nurses prioritize young febrile infants, so you may be seen relatively quickly. It is generally considered normal when long wait times for non-emergent conditions (ER visits are triaged by severity). However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if call 911 for: difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, seizures, severe bleeding, or if you suspect poisoning.
Normal vs. Concerning
By Age
What to expect by age
0-3 months
Any fever over 100.4F (38C) in a baby under 3 months warrants an immediate ER visit. Bring breast pump supplies, bottles, formula, diapers, and a change of clothes for both you and baby. Expect a thorough workup that may include blood tests, urine collection, and possibly a lumbar puncture. Triage nurses prioritize young febrile infants, so you may be seen relatively quickly.
3-6 months
Common ER visits at this age include breathing difficulties, high fevers, and injuries. Bring a written or phone note of symptoms and timeline. Bring your baby's immunization record if available (or know which vaccines they have had). Pack extra diapers - ER visits often take longer than expected. A familiar blanket or toy provides comfort in the unfamiliar environment.
6-12 months
Bring safe snacks and drinks if your baby eats solids (unless told not to eat or drink). A sippy cup or bottle is essential. Bring a stroller or baby carrier for comfort and containment in the waiting area. Have your pediatrician's contact information handy - the ER may want to coordinate with them.
12-24 months
Active toddlers in an ER can be challenging. Bring books, a tablet with downloaded shows, or small quiet toys. Bring a favorite comfort object. Dress your child in easy-to-remove clothing in case they need to change into a hospital gown. Pack snacks that are easy to eat one-handed while holding your child.
2-3 years
Explain in simple terms where you are going: "We are going to see a special doctor who will help you feel better." Bring entertainment for what could be a long wait. Ask the nurse for pain medication if your child is uncomfortable while waiting. Do not hesitate to speak up if your child's condition is worsening while in the waiting area.
What to Tell Your Pediatrician
- Describe when you first noticed going to the er with my baby - what to bring and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if your baby's condition seems to be worsening while waiting.
- Mention if you have information about your baby's medical history that the team should know.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- Long wait times for non-emergent conditions (ER visits are triaged by severity)
- Multiple tests being ordered to figure out what is wrong
- Being observed for several hours before being sent home
- Feeling stressed and overwhelmed as a parent during the ER visit
- Your baby's condition seems to be worsening while waiting
- You have information about your baby's medical history that the team should know
- You are unsure whether to follow up with your pediatrician or return to the ER
- Call 911 for: difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, seizures, severe bleeding, or if you suspect poisoning
- Do not drive to the ER if your baby stops breathing or becomes unresponsive - call 911 immediately
What You Can Do at Home
- Keep track of when you notice going to the er with my baby - what to bring — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
- Remember that long wait times for non-emergent conditions (ER visits are triaged by severity) — this is generally within the range of normal.
- At 0-3 months, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
- Follow any care instructions from your pediatrician. Keep a written log of symptoms to bring to appointments.
- While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if call 911 for: difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, seizures, severe bleeding, or if you suspect poisoning.
Related Conditions
Should I Take My Baby to Urgent Care or the ER?
The decision between urgent care and the emergency room depends on the severity of your baby's condition. The ER is for life-threatening or potentially life-threatening conditions: difficulty breathing, high fever in babies under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, serious injuries, or altered consciousness. Pediatric urgent care is appropriate for non-life-threatening but time-sensitive issues: ear infections, mild croup, minor injuries, rashes, moderate fevers in babies over 3 months, or when your pediatrician is unavailable. When in doubt, call your pediatrician first or go to the ER.
My Baby Needs to Be Hospitalized - How to Prepare
Having your baby hospitalized is stressful, but being prepared helps. Bring comfort items from home (favorite blanket, stuffed animal, pacifier), diapers, wipes, changes of clothes, and your baby's regular feeding supplies. You will typically be able to stay with your baby 24/7, and a parent cot or chair will be provided. Ask the care team to explain each procedure and test. You are an essential part of your baby's care team and your presence provides crucial comfort and emotional support.
Can I Use Telehealth for My Baby's Pediatric Visit?
Telehealth (video or phone visits with your pediatrician) can be a convenient and effective option for many baby-related concerns. It works well for: rash evaluation, mild illness assessment, feeding and sleep questions, behavior concerns, medication questions, and follow-up visits. It is NOT appropriate for emergencies, high fevers in young infants, breathing difficulty, or any condition requiring a physical examination. Telehealth is best used as a complement to in-person care, not a replacement for it.
Related Resources
Frequently asked questions
Is going to the er with my baby - what to bring normal?
When should I call the doctor about going to the er with my baby - what to bring?
When is going to the er with my baby - what to bring normal?
What causes going to the er with my baby - what to bring?
What should I mention to my pediatrician about going to the er with my baby - what to bring?
Is going to the er with my baby - what to bring normal at 0-3 months?
Is going to the er with my baby - what to bring normal at 3-6 months?
Should I go to the ER for going to the er with my baby - what to bring?
Does going to the er with my baby - what to bring go away on its own?
References
- [1]American Academy of Pediatrics. When to Go to the Emergency Department. HealthyChildren.org. AAP
- [2]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Emergency Department Visits. CDC
- [3]Mayo Clinic. Emergency Room: When to Go. Mayo Clinic
Doctor Visit Checklist
Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Going to the ER with My Baby - What to Bring.
Things to mention
- Describe when you first noticed going to the er with my baby - what to bring and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if your baby's condition seems to be worsening while waiting.
- Mention if you have information about your baby's medical history that the team should know.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
Observations to share
- Your baby's condition seems to be worsening while waiting
- You have information about your baby's medical history that the team should know
- You are unsure whether to follow up with your pediatrician or return to the ER
Urgent signs to report immediately
- Call 911 for: difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, seizures, severe bleeding, or if you suspect poisoning
- Do not drive to the ER if your baby stops breathing or becomes unresponsive - call 911 immediately
My notes
From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources5 medical advisory board members
Related Resources
Bottom line
Most cases of going to the er with my baby - what to bring are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if call 911 for: difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, seizures, severe bleeding, or if you suspect poisoning.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.
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Related Medical Concerns
Should I Take My Baby to Urgent Care or the ER?
The decision between urgent care and the emergency room depends on the severity of your baby's condition. The ER is for life-threatening or potentially life-threatening conditions: difficulty breathing, high fever in babies under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, serious injuries, or altered consciousness. Pediatric urgent care is appropriate for non-life-threatening but time-sensitive issues: ear infections, mild croup, minor injuries, rashes, moderate fevers in babies over 3 months, or when your pediatrician is unavailable. When in doubt, call your pediatrician first or go to the ER.
My Baby Needs to Be Hospitalized - How to Prepare
Having your baby hospitalized is stressful, but being prepared helps. Bring comfort items from home (favorite blanket, stuffed animal, pacifier), diapers, wipes, changes of clothes, and your baby's regular feeding supplies. You will typically be able to stay with your baby 24/7, and a parent cot or chair will be provided. Ask the care team to explain each procedure and test. You are an essential part of your baby's care team and your presence provides crucial comfort and emotional support.
Can I Use Telehealth for My Baby's Pediatric Visit?
Telehealth (video or phone visits with your pediatrician) can be a convenient and effective option for many baby-related concerns. It works well for: rash evaluation, mild illness assessment, feeding and sleep questions, behavior concerns, medication questions, and follow-up visits. It is NOT appropriate for emergencies, high fevers in young infants, breathing difficulty, or any condition requiring a physical examination. Telehealth is best used as a complement to in-person care, not a replacement for it.
My Baby's Head Shape Looks Abnormal
Many babies develop temporary head shape irregularities that are completely normal. A cone-shaped head from vaginal delivery reshapes within days. Mild positional flattening (plagiocephaly) from sleeping on the back is very common and usually improves with repositioning and tummy time. However, head shape changes involving ridges, a persistently bulging fontanelle, or rapid head growth changes should be evaluated to rule out craniosynostosis.
Achondroplasia (Dwarfism) in Babies
Achondroplasia is the most common form of short-limbed dwarfism, affecting about 1 in 15,000 to 40,000 births. It is caused by a mutation in the FGFR3 gene and is usually apparent at birth with characteristic features including short limbs, a larger head, and a prominent forehead. Intelligence is normal. With monitoring for specific complications and supportive care, children with achondroplasia lead full, active, and independent lives.
Adenoid Hypertrophy and Breathing
Adenoids are lymphoid tissue located behind the nose that help fight infection in young children. When adenoids become enlarged (adenoid hypertrophy), they can block the nasal airway, causing chronic mouth breathing, snoring, nasal speech, and sleep-disordered breathing. Enlarged adenoids are most common between ages 2-7 and are a leading cause of obstructive sleep apnea in young children. Treatment ranges from watchful waiting and nasal steroids to surgical removal (adenoidectomy) if breathing or sleep is significantly affected.