Sick Visit

sickvisitsIf your child is experiencing symptoms of being ill, we can often see them on the same day or within 24 hours. Please call us or log on to our Patient Portal to schedule an appointment. We make every effort to see your child the same day. We have early morning appointment times for sick visits at 8:30 and 8:45 AM. You must call the office first thing in the morning to schedule these times. Phones open at 8:15 AM. 

To maximize your time with the doctor, be sure to write down any questions you may have before your child’s appointment as it is sometimes difficult to remember your questions during a visit.

If your child needs to miss school due to illness, we can provide your child with a request to excuse their absences.

FEVER

Fever is our body's natural way to help fight infections. If your child is ill, knowing their temperature is very important information for your pediatrician, so it is always a good idea to take their temperature prior to calling for assistance.

Babies less than 3 months old with a documented temperature greater than 100.4 degrees should always be evaluated in a timely fashion.

Fever reducing medications such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen may be used safely if directions are followed regarding dosing.

We are happy to help if you have questions about when to use fever reducing medications and what dosage to give, or if you have questions regarding taking and understanding your child's temperature.

ANTIBIOTICS

Inappropriate use of antibiotics is a primary cause for the dramatic increase in resistance that we see among bacterial germs today.

The goal of our pediatricians is to prescribe an antibiotic only when appropriate and to help the parent understand why antibiotics are not indicated for certain infections. If you have questions regarding the use of antibiotics for your child, please do not hesitate to discuss with your healthcare provider.

Here are a few simple rules regarding antibiotic use:

1. Don't expect to take an antibiotic every time you are sick.

2. Understand when antibiotics should be used.

3. Always take ALL of the antibiotics that are prescribed to you in the time span recommended. Do not stop taking them if you start feeling better.