Children's Center Facilities
Avera McKennan Children's Center provides the latest technology and 24-hour coverage by our highly qualified staff. We are equipped to deal with pediatric illnesses, injuries and emergencies whether the patient is an infant or young adult.
Our facility includes private pediatric rooms that can interface with a central monitoring system to allow close, continuous observation of vital signs and patient status. As a parent, you have 24-hour access to our unit and each room has a sleeper unit so you can stay overnight with your child.
Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Our PICU offers comprehensive care and the latest technology to ensure your child has the best intensive care available. Here are some of the features that make our PICU stand out:
- 24 hour coverage by pediatric intensive care physicians, nurses and technicians
- Bedside sleeper units for parents
- State of the art diagnostics
- Comprehensive laboratory services
- A central monitoring system
- Immediate access to pediatric subspecialty physicians and other professionals
Oncology Unit
Our Children's Center has a special oncology area designed to provide a quiet, comfortable environment for oncology patients. The rooms are private and contain a special airflow system to prevent any germs from entering the room. Our Pediatric Oncology area also includes:
- Specially trained oncology nursing staff
- Special monitoring devices which can be connected to our central nurses station
Outpatient Care
Sometimes an overnight stay at the hospital is not necessary. If you only need to be at our Children's Center for a day, you still have access to our special services. This area is staffed by registered nurses and includes a private room for each patient. Parents are encouraged to bring familiar items from home even for these short stays to help make their child feel more comfortable.
Avera Children's also provides outpatient services through several specialty clinics located on our campus.
Comprehensive Care
Our Children's Center staff works with experts from our specialty clinics to make sure our patients receive the most effective comprehensive treatment.
Safety and Technology
Our pediatric department has measures in place to protect the safety and security of your child. All entry and departure is regulated by the unit coordinator and monitored by video security. Only authorized personnel in the hospital can enter these areas.
Other Special Pediatric Areas
We have special areas to make your child's hospital stay as pleasant as possible.
Play Room
Our playroom is filled with toys, games, crafts and books for all ages. If your child is unable to come to the playroom, toys and activities will be provided in the child's room.
Computer Access
Computers are available with (child friendly/protected) Internet access.
Suds and Duds
Staying in the hospital for any length of time can be difficult - especially when you have to come unexpectedly. We provide a laundry room that is fully stocked and available for use while you are with us. This allows you to wash your clothes or any personal items such as your child's favorite blanket.
Outdoor Courtyard
The outdoor courtyard is just steps away from the pediatric unit. Several benches and tables are present in the courtyard.
Patient Video and Book Library
Books, videos and magazines are all located in a special area in our Children's Center. Also, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center has a comprehensive video and reading-material library easily accessible for patients and families.
Food and Snack Bar
Parents and patients have access to a snack bar and kitchenette stocked with liquid refreshments, snacks, frozen foods, fruits and other foods. Parent meals are available in addition to the snack bar.
If you have questions or would like to learn more, contact our Children's Center at (605) 322-3600.