When your little one is sick, it can be scary, and when a fever is involved, it can feel even scarier. However, fevers aren't always bad and are a sign that our bodies are fighting. A mild fever is generally easy to treat at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications. That said, a sustained fever can sometimes indicate a more serious infection. See below to help determine when to take your child to the doctor for a fever.
Typically, it is best to call your doctor before heading to the ER. However, if your pediatrician is unavailable, here are some general guidelines for when to go to the ER.
Newborns and infants younger than three months old
If your baby is less than three months old, visit the pediatric ER if their temperature is above 100.4 degrees. You should also seek emergency care if your baby's fever is accompanied by these symptoms:
- Difficulty waking up to be fed
- Difficulty breathing
- Rash
- Vomiting
- Inconsolable or non-stop crying
Babies and toddlers - three months to three years
For babies and toddlers between the age of three months and three years, visit the pediatric ER if the child's temperature is above 102.2 degrees or if the child is displaying these symptoms:
- Difficulty waking up
- Not urinating
- Unable to keep fluids down
- Inconsolable
- Not up to date on immunizations
- Difficulty breathing
- Rash
Children (three years old and older)
If your child is three years old or older, visit the pediatric ER if the child's temperature is over 102 degrees for two or more days. You should also seek emergency care if the fever is accompanied by any of these symptoms:
- Abdominal pain
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Unable to keep fluids down
- Burning during urination or does not urinate
- Rash
- Stiff neck
- Difficulty waking up
- Not up to date on immunizations
While all our HealthONE ER facilities are fully equipped to care for the entire family, our full-service ER at Presbyterian/St. Luke's Medical Center can provide extended pediatric care for more serious conditions.
In addition to the dedicated 24/7 pediatric emergency room at 20th and North High Street, HealthONE has additional emergency rooms within the Denver metro area to provide care for the entire family. Our family-friendly ER locations include The Medical Center, North Suburban Medical Center, Rose Medical Center and Swedish Medical Center.
Check back here next month for more tips for parents on when to seek ER services.