It is always hard to see your kids feeling sick with an earache, a fever, or other symptoms, but is especially challenging when it is outside normal pediatric office hours. Many times the only options are to wait until the doctor’s office is open or visit an emergency room with long wait times. The board-certified pediatricians at Pediatric Associates Inc., in Fort Wayne, IN, offer after-hours pediatric care so your child can receive treatment when they need it.
After-Hours Pediatric Care Services
Children can often wait to see the pediatrician during normal operating hours for minor symptoms, such as nasal congestion or a mild cough. However, when symptoms persist and your child is experiencing discomfort, an after-hours visit might be needed. At our office in Fort Wayne, IN, after-hours pediatric care is available for many symptoms and acute conditions, including:
- Fevers
- Ear infections
- Sore throat/strep throat
- Urinary tract infections
- Nausea or vomiting
- Persistent cough
- A cold or the flu
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
When you bring your child in for after-hours care a doctor will assess their symptoms and conduct a physical exam. Diagnostic testing will also be performed, if needed, and could include a blood test, rapid strep test, or urinalysis, for example. Upon diagnosis of your child’s condition or illness, the doctor will prescribe a treatment plan, which might include over-the-counter medications, prescription antibiotics, or antiviral medicines, as well as plenty of rest and keeping hydrated.
When To Seek Emergency Care
After-hours pediatric care allows kids to see their regular pediatrician for a wide range of symptoms and illnesses outside of normal business hours. However, there are times when emergency care should be sought instead. If you contact us for an after-hours visit, our skilled pediatric staff will help determine if an in-office appointment is adequate or if your child needs to go to the emergency room. Examples of when to visit an emergency room include:
- Severe injury
- Severe bleeding
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of consciousness
- Head injury or concussion
- Life-threatening condition
- Severe allergic reaction
- Extremely high fever
- Serious burn
- Broken bone
Contact Us Today
Whether your child is feeling ill during the day or after hours, we are here to help. For after-hours pediatric care in Fort Wayne, IN, call Pediatric Associates Inc., at (260) 436-3789.