Pediatric Care
When it comes to caring for your child, Porter combines a gentle touch with the finest medical services available.
We know that entrusting your child’s health in the hands of health care professionals isn’t a decision you make lightly. No one can take care of a child the way a parent can. But Porter’s pediatric team is dedicated to providing the best medical care possible for your child.
Porter ’s Pediatric Unit is located at our Valparaiso Hospital Campus. Physicians and Nurses in our Pediatric Unit personalize care for each child, based on age, the child’s medical condition, and the child’s individual needs. Our Pediatric Nurses have specialized training in treating children’s health care needs, and have an average of more than 16 years’ experience. They are also certified in Pediatric Advanced Life Support.
Our Emergency Services Team includes the medical personnel and the equipment necessary to cater to children’s special needs. Each of our ambulances features pediatric paramedic bags with equipment that is specially designed to fit infants and children. In addition, our Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians have each undergone in-depth pediatric training for first responders, ensuring that they have the skills necessary to provide emergency care for children in our communities.
Parents may schedule a pre-surgical tour of the hospitals’ pediatric areas. During the tour, a nurse will show children the recovery room, toy room, our library of videos and Nintendo games, and a patient room that includes an adjustable bed and a television. The nurse also explains what children and their parents can expect during the hospital stay. To schedule a pediatric pre-surgical tour, call 219.263.4758.
Parents of pediatric patients may choose to spend the night with their children. “We have a chair that folds into a bed for parents to use,” said Pediatric nurse Shirley O’Laughlin, RN, who has more than 30 years’ experience caring for children. “Almost all parents stay overnight with their children.”
For more information on pediatric services offered through Porter, please call 219.263.4656.