As a parent, your first instinct may be to drive immediately to the pediatrician’s office as soon as you see something wrong with your child. While that instinct is understandable, it may also cause your child unnecessary stress and discomfort. Still, there are times when arranging a sick visit is warranted. We at Healthy Kids Pediatric Group accommodate sick visits at our locations in Lawrenceville, Robbinsville, and East Windsor, NJ. Please don’t hesitate to stop by if your child needs treatment.

When Are Sick Visits Warranted?

Sick visits are consultations you arrange with a medical professional if you are dealing with an acute condition that poses no risk to a person’s life. They are a step up from the regular well-child visits that parents are urged to schedule with pediatricians, but not quite on the same level as emergency treatment sessions.
Many parents think of scheduling a sick visit due to the onset of a fever. Generally speaking, any child three months or younger should be taken to a pediatrician if he or she has a temperature over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have an older child, the temperature threshold rises to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Your child’s temperature becomes a secondary consideration if his or her fever has lasted for several days.
Kids with concerning rashes should also see a pediatrician. Problematic rashes are usually accompanied by bleeding. You should also take notice if your child is experiencing breathing troubles. Breathing difficulties are uncomfortable and possibly symptomatic of chronic conditions. Address them as soon as possible so you can improve your child’s quality of life.
Lastly, you should not ignore noticeable changes in your child’s behavior. If your child appears more lethargic and withdrawn than usual, there’s likely an explanation for that. Get to the root of that issue by scheduling a sick visit.

How Should You Prepare for a Sick Visit?

Since sick visits are often unplanned, you don’t have to make extensive preparations before one. The best thing you can do in that situation is collect as much information as you can about your child’s condition. Note any symptoms you have observed and write them down. Share them with your child’s pediatrician so he or she can account for them during the diagnostic process. The information you share may help your child receive faster treatment.

Comprehensive Pediatric Services for New Jersey Residents

Partner with us at Healthy Kids Pediatric Group if your child needs immediate treatment for an acute illness or injury. Call us at 609-448-7300 or visit any of our offices in Lawrenceville, Robbinsville, or East Windsor, NJ, to learn more about our services.