Sick Visits

No one wants to see a child being unwell. But, when it happens, you must decide quickly if your child needs a sick visit to see a pediatrician. If in doubt, trust your gut and see the team of experts at Pediatric Medical Associates in Folsom and Sacramento, California. The team of board-certified pediatricians is ready to see you as quickly as possible, usually on a same-day basis. Call now or schedule a consultation online so your child gets the treatment they need as soon as possible.

Does my child need a sick visit?

Pediatric sick visits address any serious but non-emergency health issues your child may have. They are particularly important for young babies whose health can change quickly.

There’s a long list of conditions that warrant a sick visit, but the most common are:

• Fever, especially in babies (100.3 degrees or higher)
• Rash
• Repeated refusal to eat
• Crying without stopping
• Diarrhea that lasts more than 8 hours
• Redness, swelling, or discharge around the navel or genitals
• Strained or heavy breathing
• Vomiting

Older children with painful ears, sore throats, and unexplained aches and pains should also see a pediatrician. 

What happens during a sick visit?

During your visit, the team of board-certified pediatricians at Pediatric Medical Associates will see your child and diagnose the problem through tests and a medical history review. In most cases, they prescribe medication and conduct follow-up monitoring to ensure your child gets well.

If it turns out that your child requires specialized care, the team works closely with highly respected doctors at Sutter Memorial Hospital and Mercy General Hospital. After referral, they follow up closely to ensure your child is recovering well.

What should I do if it’s an emergency?

You should always call an ambulance or head straight to the ER if your child has life-threatening symptoms. These include trouble breathing, discolored skin, severe vomiting, pain or pressure in the chest or stomach, confusion, dizziness, and extreme irritability. 

This is vital because, in such cases, every minute counts. You should always have a list of emergency contacts for your area.

The pediatric medical associate team understands that emergencies can occur with any child. That’s why they ensure parents understand what to do in an emergency, including what first aid to take and who to call. The team conducts parent education covering topics such as child CPR and choking.

As a parent, your highest priority is ensuring your child is healthy and growing up well. The team at Pediatric Medical Associates works with you to give your child the best of care, no matter the time or day. If your child is unwell, don’t hesitate to call or schedule an appointment online.