When should I take my child to the ER for a fever?

Go to the ER for any fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher in a baby under 12 weeks, a fever of 105°F+ that doesn't come down with medicine, or fever with trouble breathing, a stiff neck, a purple rash that doesn't fade when pressed, a seizure, or signs of severe dehydration.

How do I know if my child's cut needs stitches?

A cut likely needs closure if it is deeper than a quarter inch, gapes open, is on the face or over a joint, or is still bleeding after 10 minutes of firm direct pressure. Stitches or skin glue work best within 6 to 8 hours of the injury.

When is croup an emergency?

Croup is an emergency when there is harsh noisy breathing (stridor) at rest while calm, severe trouble breathing, drooling with distress, or blue lips. A calm child with only a barky cough can usually wait until morning.

Should I go to urgent care or the emergency room with my child?

Choose pediatric urgent care for non-life-threatening problems like fever in an older child, earache, sore throat, minor cuts, sprains and mild vomiting. Choose the ER for breathing trouble, fever under 12 weeks of age, deformed fractures, head injury with loss of consciousness, or swallowed objects.

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HealthyChildren.org (AAP) — Urgent Care, ER or Pediatrician: A Parent Guide; Fever.
CDC — children’s health and return-to-school guidance; U.S. FDA — benzocaine teething warning; cough/cold medicine guidance under age 4.
KidsHealth from Nemours — When Does a Cut Need Stitches?
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