Source: Shutterstock

Childcare Emergencies: How To Be Prepared for an UCC Visit

Last updated: Tuesday, May 14, 2019 | 2 min reading time

As parents, we hope we never have to send our children to the UCC. But should an emergency ever happen, these tips will help us know just what to do.

How to get prepared?

1. Know where the nearest hospital is

Do your research and identify the nearest hospital with a 24-hour children's Urgent Care Centre (UCC). Familiarise yourself with the route, so you can get there as quickly as possible.

2. Make a list of important numbers

You don't want to be fumbling with a search for contact numbers during an emergency. So take note of the following emergency contact numbers and have them within reach at home and in your mobile phone:

UCC helpline number of the nearest hospital
Ambulance number
Taxi service
Family members' contact

Have these numbers easily accessible in a prominent place at home so that everyone has access to them – a noticeboard or on the fridge – or on speed dial in your phone.

3. Have an emergency bag packed

Have an emergency bag packed to save time in the event of an emergency UCC visit.

Items to pack include a change of clothes, pyjamas, toiletries, footwear, a favourite book, toy, or even some colouring pencils and drawing pad. Make sure everyone at home knows where the bag is, and where to find your child's health booklet and birth certificate. This way, even if the child gets rushed to the UCC first, someone at home can collect these essentials without you having to leave your child's side.

4. Keep your first-aid kit stocked and updated

You may need to administer some first aid as you wait for an ambulance or taxi to arrive. Always keep your first-aid kit stocked and check regularly for expired items.

5. Be first aid ready

You may not be able to anticipate an emergency, but you can know what to do in one. Early first aid intervention can make a difference to the situation when your child is waiting for professional medical care on the way to the UCC.

Identifying an emergency

If your child's condition isn't life threatening, such as a cold or a minor injury or small burn, a visit to your GP or a 24-hour UCC will suffice.

But as a parent, you know your children best. Here are 9 signs to note if your children should visit the UCC. If in doubt, bring your child to the UCC or call an ambulance for immediate medical attention.

During a medical emergency in Singapore, you can also call +65 6473 2222 for an ambulance that will transport you to the nearest hospital or a hospital of your choice. Learn more about Parkway Emergency services.

Article tags

Children Urgent care

How to Keep Your Kid Healthy for the Exams

Although exams may be a stressful period for everyone at home, it doesn't have to take a toll on your child's health. Here are 6 ways to make sure your child is in their best condition for the exams.

9 Healthy Family Activities for the Holidays

9 healthy activities that you can do as a family to strengthen family ties, kill boredom and improve your overall health at the same time.

Parents' Handy Guide to Pink Eye

Dr Leonard Ang, ophthalmologist, guides you on the causes of pink eye (conjunctivitis) and what to do when it occurs.

Could You be Allergic to these Common Foods? Here's How to Tell

Allergies are at best annoying, and at worst life-threatening. Here's how to identify an allergy when you have one, and what to do when an allergy acts up.