How to Prepare for a Sick-Child Phone Call to Your Pediatrician

We understand that a sick baby or child is stressful, and when you call our office, we want to help you as quickly and effectively as possible. Being prepared with certain information can significantly speed up the conversation and ensure our pediatrician gives you the most accurate advice and care. If your child exhibits symptoms of illness, please consider gathering the following details prior to calling us. Our goal is to provide timely and compassionate support to all families in the Greater Atlanta Area.

Tracking Symptoms and When They Began

Prior to your call, be ready to discuss what seems to be wrong, including all accompanying symptoms and a clear timeline of when these ailments or concerns started. A fever that started at 3 PM is different than one that began yesterday morning. This detailed preparation helps your pediatrician in Alpharetta quickly assess the situation.

Get an Accurate Temperature Reading

Please take an up-to-date temperature reading. Remember to use the correct method for your child’s age: rectal for newborns and infants; under the arm for toddlers; and under the arm or in the mouth for older kids. This crucial piece of information is vital to determining the appropriate next steps for care and for our patients in Cumming.

Monitor Fluid Intake and Diaper/Void Output

It is essential to note how much your child is eating and drinking over the past 24 hours and the last time they had either food or drink. Also, note the last time they had a wet and dirty diaper or voided. This information helps us gauge hydration levels, which is a major concern when a child is ill, especially for our youngest patients in Roswell and Milton.

Have Medication Details Ready

Please create a list of the names, amounts (dosage), and exact times of any medicines you are currently giving your child or baby. This includes over-the-counter pain relievers. This helps prevent medication interactions or confusion, ensuring our advice is safe and accurate for families throughout the Johns Creek area.

In case of a severe emergency, please call 911 right away. Do not wait to contact our office first. Your child’s safety is always the top priority. If your child is seen in the emergency room or hospitalized, we ask that you contact our office the next business day during regular hours. This allows us to schedule any needed follow-up care and complete necessary paperwork. At The World Of Pediatrics, we are here to support you every step of the way.