Pediatric Emergency Care

When every second counts, your child deserves care from experts who understand their unique needs. The Pediatric Emergency Department at UNM Children’s Hospital is New Mexico’s only dedicated pediatric ED and part of the state’s only Level I Trauma Center, ensuring the highest level of emergency care for children of all ages. 

Our physicians are board‑certified in pediatric emergency medicine and our entire team is specially trained to manage the full spectrum of childhood emergencies — from injuries and acute illnesses to complex, life‑threatening conditions. We care for children from across the state, working closely with our pediatric specialists to provide seamless, coordinated treatment in a setting designed for kids and their families.

For less severe needs, we offer the only urgent care in New Mexico dedicated exclusively to children, staffed by board‑certified pediatricians who specialize in treating young patients. Minor emergencies such as sprains, cuts, mild asthma attacks, and common infections are treated quickly and expertly, helping your child feel better faster.

If your child needs emergency care, please call 911.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Call 911 and go to the ED right away if your child experiences any of these symptoms or conditions:

• Burns or smoke inhalation
• Choking
• Deep cuts
• Extreme sleepiness
• Head injuries that lead to confusion, a bad headache or vomiting
• Near drowning
• Neck stiffness with fever
• Persistent pain
• Poisoning
• Seizures
• Trouble breathing
• Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness