Why cant a child under the age of 12 go in ICU at a hospital?

Question

I never have understood this...why is it 12...how do they determine this?

Answer 1

I think 12 is more or less a random number, with a two fold reason why. They don't want little kids in because some younger kids don't have as developed an immune system as older kids and adults do, so they want to lessen their risk of getting sick. The other reason is, most of kids are, for lack of a better term, "germ mongers". Haven't you ever noticed that when your kid is in preschool thru like 4th grade, they're sick a lot? That's why. Little kids often lack the handwashing skills and other means to prevent transmission of germs and are often exposed to more than older kids and adults.

I believe that many hospitals will make an exception for a child whose parent or sibling is in the ICU, but not other relatives.

Answer 2

Children under age 12 are more likely to have some virus that has been going around their school. Also less likely to be able to handle all the trauma in ICU.

Answer 3

It depends on the hospital. My mother is in the hospital now in ICU, and they let all her grandkids under 12 in they are 3,6,7,& 8.

Answer 4

probably because under 12 is young and young kids are always sick. also the drs dont want kids running up and down the halls and 12 year old are generally old enough to know better or at least be able to stand still for a few minutes

Answer 5

Emotionally too traumatic for the child.Anyone in the I.C.U. is very hurt or ill,and not up to the energy of the child either.
This also places the Staff in an awkward situation-codes and c.p.r. are a constant there.

Answer 6

12 is usually when a kid is priced as an adult at the movies, restaurants, and even hospitals. Traditionally, they get adult treatment at 12.

Answer 7

Children carry a lot of germs so they don't let any children in for that reason.