When to Call Your Pediatrician

Author: Karen McCumiskey, MS, RNC, Perinatal Education Coordinator, Good Samaritan University Hospital

Sometimes it’s hard to tell how sick your child is or if you should call. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends calling your pediatrician if your baby has any of the following:

• Not feeding for a few feedings in a row
• A rectal temperature of 100.4°or higher
• A fever that lasts more than 24 hours
• Vomiting or diarrhea that last more than a few hours
• Has signs of dehydration (decreased number of wet diapers—should have 6 to 8/day, does not shed tears when crying, has sunken eyes, or the soft spot on the top of his or her head has sunken)
• Any cough or cold that does not get better or gets worse
• Change in behavior: Fussy or sleeps more than usual
• Has a rash
• Has ear drainage
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Fall of any type

Before calling your baby’s doctor have a pen and paper handy to write things down and have the following information ready:

• Baby’s temperature (if you think your baby has a fever)
• Name and doses of any medication your baby takes (including over-the-counter)
• Any medical problems your baby may have
• Baby’s immunization record
• Phone number of your pharmacy

Remember, it’s always better to call your baby’s doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Some offices even have special “call in” times for non-emergency questions. Trust your instincts and remember that no question is too silly to ask.

American Academy of Pediatrics:

Fever: When to Call the Pediatrician
 

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