Observation unit management of pediatric emergencies.

Observation units for children in an Emergency Department setting can serve to improve the quality of medical care provided as well as reduce overall costs; however, they must be properly organized with careful consideration for the needs of children. Policies must be written specifying who is in charge as well as who can be accepted into these units and for how long. Procedures regarding documentation and sign-out must be formulated. These units must be well staffed and fully equipped, and they should be pleasant places for the children to stay; otherwise, what might begin as assets can quickly become disorganized and potentially dangerous liabilities.