1359 Old Water Works Rd SW
Fort Payne, AL 35968-3347
URGENT CARE
Sometimes it's hard to tell how sick your child is. However, urgent care or a trip to the hospital is usually not needed for a simple cold or cough, mild diarrhea, constipation, temper tantrums, or sleep problems. However, if your child has any of the following, call to find out if he needs to be seen:
Vomiting and diarrhea that last for more than a few hours in a child of any age
Rash, especially if there is also a fever
Any cough or cold that does not get better in several days, or a cold that gets worse and is accompanied by a fever
Cuts that might need stitches
Limping or is not able to move an arm or leg
Ear pain with fever, is unable to sleep or drink, is vomiting, has diarrhea, or is acting ill
Drainage from an ear
Severe sore throat or problems swallowing
Sharp or persistent pains in the abdomen or stomach
Pain that gets worse or does not go away after several hours
A rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher in a baby younger than 2 months
Fever and repeated vomiting at the same time
Blood in the urine
Bloody diarrhea or diarrhea that will not go away
Not drinking for more than 12 hours
EMERGENCY CARE
Call 911 (or your emergency number) for any severely ill or injured child or if your infant or child has any of the following:
Bleeding that does not stop with direct pressure over the wound
Suspected poisoning (Call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.)
Seizures (rhythmic jerking and loss of consciousness)
Trouble breathing
Skin or lips that look blue, purple, or gray
Neck stiffness or rash with fever
Head injury with loss of consciousness, confusion, vomiting, or poor skin color
Sudden lack of energy or is not able to move
Unconsciousness or lack of response
Acting strangely or becoming more withdrawn and less alert
A cut or burn that is large, deep, or involves the head, chest, abdomen, hands, groin, or face
We prefer that you call with general questions during office hours. Before you call, have a pen and paper ready to write down any instructions and questions. It's easy to forget things, especially if you are worried about your child. During the call make sure your child is near the phone, if possible, in case you need to answer any questions.
Also, be prepared to provide information about your child's health.
FEVER If you think your child has a fever, take your child's temperature before you call. If your child does have a fever, write down the temperature and time you took it.
MEDICAL PROBLEMS
Remind the doctor about past medical problems (such as asthma, seizures, or other conditions). He or she cares for many children each day and may not remember your child's health history.
MEDICINES Be sure to mention if your child is taking any medicines, including prescription or nonprescription drugs, inhalers, supplements, vitamins, herbal products, or home remedies.
PHARMACY Have the phone number of your pharmacy ready.
If our office needs to return your call, make sure you are available for a callback. Turn of "Do Not Disturb," and keep phone lines open so that we can return your call in a timely manner. If you leave a cell phone number, be sure that you have your cell phone on and will be in an area where you can receive calls.