Parenting comes with a large number of responsibilities along with important decisions to be made. You are responsible for the health and safety of your child. Whether you are a new parent or have multiple children, childhood illnesses can be a scary and uncertain time. Many questions arise. What type of medicine should you give your child? Should my child stay home from school? Is it more than just a cold? When do I need to take my child to the doctor? While some illnesses require rest and a little comforting, other times you may need to call your child's doctor.
Step 1
Use common sense. Call 911 if the emergency is life threatening. Call your child's doctor in the event of an emergency. The Medical University of South Carolina indicates you should visit an emergency room if you cannot reach your child's doctor within an hour. For illnesses that may require a test or antibiotic, call your doctor within 24 hours during the business day.
Step 2
Check your child's temperature. If your child has a temperature higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit and fever-reducing medication is not working, call the doctor.
Step 3
Call your child's doctor if your child has uncontrolled vomiting or diarrhea. A nurse or doctor may suggest coming in for a visit or will tell you what to do at home to better control the situation.
Step 4
Treat breathing problems seriously -- especially if your child has asthma. Call your child's doctor and then visit the nearest emergency room immediately.
Step 5
Call your child's doctor if your child has a sore throat or rash that gradually worsens or will not go away.
Step 6
Call if your child complains of pain or is experiencing unexplained weight loss. These can be signs of more serious problems.
Step 7
Make a phone call if you believe your child is experiencing an allergic reaction to a medication or if your child is experiencing problems related to a chronic or life-threatening illness for which he is being treated.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep a list of your child's doctors handy. Have one at home, with the babysitter, at school, in your purse or program the numbers into your mobile phone.
