EDITOR'S NOTE: As part of our "AZ Health" series with Cardon Children's Medical Center, we hosted a Twitter discussion about holiday-related injuries on Wednesday, Dec. 16. Our guest medical expert was Cardon injury prevention specialist Tracey Fejt, R.N. Following is a transcript of the discussion.

 Watch our video featuring Tracey's recommendations for "Six Holiday Safety Tips."

RAKmagazine: What are the most common injuries you see around the holidays? 

Tracey Fejt, RN: Several include choking, suffocation, burns from holiday fires and head injuries/fractures from vacation activities. With the snow up north, sledding injuries are up. We suggest parents take precautions—feet first, look for trees, etc.

RAKmagazine: At what point should a child be taken to the hospital for a burn? What are the signs of a severe burn?

Tracey Fejt, RN: If the burn starts to blister, go to ER. For a severe burn (feet, hands, face, genitals) go to the burn center. Other burn center issues: inhalation, chemical, electrical burns.

RAKmagazine (question from audience): Is lead found in a lot of Christmas decorations? Like metallic wrapping paper? 

Tracey Fejt, RN: Lead can be found in tinsel. Look for warning labels on products. As a general rule, keep products out of the mouth.

RAKmagazine: What steps and who should be contacted in the event of an accident over the holiday?

Tracey Fejt, RN: If your doctor’s office is closed, come to the ER. Don't hesitate. If possible, bring the child in car seat in your car. Call an ambulance for respiratory or life threatening issues. Banner poison control information is available at http://bit.ly/6Zyte9.

RAKmagazine: Should the family pediatrician be contacted in the event of an incident?

Tracey Fejt, RN: You can always contact the family doctor first. They will tell you to come to the office or ER. If the office is closed, come to ER.

RAKmagazine: Is there a difference between sending a child to a children’s hospital versus a traditional hospital?

Tracey Fejt, RN: Children's hospitals have kid-sized equipment and specially trained staff for pediatrics. Kids are not just tiny adults!

RAKmagazine: If a spouse/partner is not available, what sort of plan should be in place in case of an injury?

Tracey Fejt: Parents should prepare a notarized document listing caregivers who have the right to get the child treated.

RAKmagazine: Are hospitals busier this time of year? How do hospital waiting rooms assess need?

Tracey Fejt, RN: Hospitals are busier because of closed doctor's offices, flu/cold season, etc. ER sees people in order of severity. Banner hospitals have a system to treat and release people quickly whom are less severe. Waiting patients are closely monitored.

RAKmagazine: If a child doesn't quality for immediate treatment, does the waiting room provide medication, etc?

Tracey Fejt, RN: Often, waiting occurs between tests and waiting for results. All patients are quickly assessed the minute they walk in. Patients are seen by a healthcare provider immediately and treatments can be started in the waiting room.

RAKmagazine: Which holiday plants are poisonous and what should be done in the event a child ingests one?

Tracey Fejt, RN:: Poisonous plants include: amaryllis, Christmas trees, holly berries, Jerusalem cherry, mistletoe, poinsettia, pyracantha, rosary pea and jequirity bean. All have different symptoms. Contact poison control. All those plants are poisonous for cats and dogs as well.

RAKmagazine: What are some ways to prevent holiday-related injuries?

Tracey Fejt, RN: Assess decor, keep candles away from kids, check lights for fraying, and keep the tree watered.

RAKmagazine:What should I be on the lookout for when buying holiday decorations?

Tracey Fejt, RN: For small children: no sharp edges, no wire hooks on ornaments, no small parts that can be bitten off and choked on. Boys are especially attracted to fire and candles. 

RAKmagazine: What are some tips for tree maintenance that will keep my family safe?

Tracey Fejt, RN: With real trees, ensure freshness (no falling needles) and water daily. For fake trees, look for a 'flame resistant' label.

RAKmagazine: Holidays can be so stressful. What are some ways to combat stress?

Tracey Fejt: Plan ahead. No last minute (if possible). Create a spending plan. Take time to breathe! Kids are affected by stress and notice when adults are stressed.

RAKmagazine: How does stress present itself in children? What signs should I be aware of?

Tracey Fejt: Some signs include: mood swings, acting out, sleep pattern changes, bed wetting, stomachaches, headaches, and trouble concentrating.