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Fever

Cali Kids Urgent Care Our Services Fever
Cali Kids Urgent Care - - Pediatric Urgent Care

Cali Kids Urgent Care

Pediatric Urgent Care located in Laguna Niguel, CA

An elevated temperature means more than just a hot child in many cases. A fever is defined as a temperature of 100.4°F or above. Please check your child’s temperature at home and record the number. If your child had a fever in the first 28 days of life, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Often, a fever is a strong indicator that something’s not right within your child’s body. Brittany Glenn, DO, and the Cali Kids Urgent Care team are your partners in this process. For fast diagnosis and effective treatment, call the office in Laguna Niguel, California, or request an appointment online.

Fever Q & A

How should I take my child’s temperature?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a digital thermometer. You can take your child’s temperature in three different ways:

  • Rectal: in the bottom
  • Oral: in the mouth, below the tongue
  • Under the arm: in the armpit

 

Rectal and oral readings are most accurate. For babies and toddlers younger than 3, a rectal reading is best. Once your child is 4-5, they’re usually old enough to get a reliable oral temperature. If you do not have a thermometer, one can be purchased at Cali Kids Urgent Care.

What’s classified as a fever?

The normal temperature for a healthy child is 97-100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. According to The American Academy of Pediatrics, any temperature over 100.4 is a possible fever.

What should I do when my child has a fever?

The younger that your child is, the more serious that an elevated temperature can be. If your child’s under three months old, see the doctor as soon as their temperature breaks 100.4.

If your child’s under two years old and their fever lasts for over 24 hours, see the doctor. For children over the age of two, see the doctor if they’ve had the temperature for more than 72 hours.

In some cases, it may be OK to administer a temperature-reducing medication like Tylenol at home instead of going to the doctor right away. This may often be the case for slight fevers in school-age children.

However, every child is unique, and it’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your child’s health and wellness. Cali Kids Urgent Care recommends that you call the team for guidance if you’re unsure whether to bring your child in.

Does a fever mean my child is contagious?

Not necessarily. Sometimes, a fever can result from non-contagious conditions like dehydration or, in rare instances, allergic reactions. With that said, a fever is quite often connected to a contagious infection, and therefore it’s best to see the doctor for treatment as soon as possible. If your child has a fever, it’s best to stay home, avoiding daycare or school, until they see the doctor.

Don’t take chances when your child develops a fever. Call Cali Kids Urgent Care to schedule an appointment or request one online today. Walk-ins are also welcome. 

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