Every parent has been there: your child is sick or hurt, and you're not sure what to do. This guide helps you make that call quickly and confidently.
Summus is not an emergency medical service. If your child is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 first or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Do not call Summus first.
Go to the ER Right Away
Call 911 or go to the ER immediately for any of the following. Do not wait.
Infants (Up to 12 Months)
- Fever with age: Any fever in a baby under 3 months old - go in immediately, even if they seem okay
- No wet diaper in 8 hours: This is a sign of serious dehydration
- Fever over 104°F: At any age, take your child in immediately
- Breathing problems: Noisy breathing, wheezing, grunting, gasping, or breathing very fast
- Blue or pale color: Around the lips, fingernails, or tongue
- Floppy or unresponsive: Baby is limp, unusually still, or won't wake up for feedings
- Seizures: Rhythmic jerking, stiffening of the body, or "staring spells" where baby seems frozen
- Falls: Any fall from a height or direct blow to the head, especially if followed by vomiting, loss of consciousness, or a change in behavior
- Burns: Any burn involving the hands, feet, or face, or any burn larger than the size of your child's palm
- Severe allergic reaction: Swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing or swallowing, hives spreading quickly, especially after eating a new food or exposure to a known allergen
Children (1 Year and Older)
- Fever over 104°F
- Breathing problems: Wheezing, grunting, gasping, ribs showing with each breath, or lips turning blue
- Seizures: Any seizure, especially a first-time seizure or one lasting more than 5 minutes
- Head injuries: Any fall from a height or blow to the head followed by vomiting, confusion, loss of consciousness, or unusual sleepiness
- Severe belly pain: Especially if it comes on suddenly, is in the lower right side, or the child won't let you touch their stomach
- Burns: Hands, feet, face, or large areas of the body
- Severe allergic reaction: Trouble breathing or swallowing, throat tightening, face swelling, especially after eating something they're allergic to
- Dehydration: No urination in 8+ hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying, extreme tiredness
- Stiff neck with fever: Could be a sign of meningitis - do not wait
Call or Visit Your Pediatrician During Regular Hours
These situations need a doctor's attention but are not emergencies. Schedule a same-day or next-day appointment, or call your pediatrician's nurse line - most practices have one available after hours.
Infants (Up to 12 Months)
- Fever in babies over 3 months who are acting and eating normally
- Mild digestive issues: Occasional vomiting or diarrhea, but still having wet diapers and eating normally
- Congestion or mild cough: Baby is still eating and sleeping reasonably well, breathing normally
- Ear tugging: Especially after a recent cold, which can signal an ear infection
- New or spreading rash that is not accompanied by breathing trouble or fever
- Feeding concerns: You're worried they're not eating enough, or have questions about breastfeeding or formula
- Growth questions: You have concerns about weight gain
- Development: Baby isn't reaching milestones like rolling, sitting, or responding to sounds
Children (1 Year and Older)
- Fever that has lasted more than 3 days in a child who is otherwise acting like themselves
- Ear pain: Child is pulling at ears or complaining of pain, especially after a cold
- Mild digestive issues: Vomiting or diarrhea that isn't severe, child is still drinking fluids
- Cough or cold: Mild congestion, runny nose, low-grade fever - child is still eating and drinking
- New or spreading rash without other serious symptoms
- Seasonal allergies: Recurring sneezing, itchy eyes, or runny nose that follows a pattern
- Minor food reactions: Upset stomach after a specific food (not a severe reaction)
- Sleep problems: Trouble falling asleep, frequent night waking, nightmares
- Behavioral concerns: Unusual fussiness, separation anxiety, mood changes
- Development questions: Concerns about speech, walking, social skills, or hitting milestones
- School or learning concerns: Trouble focusing, reading difficulties, social challenges
Not Sure What to Do? Ask Summus.
If your child is sick or hurt and you're not sure what to do, Summus is available to help you think it through. A dedicated doctor can review the situation, explain your options, and point you to the right next step.
Summus does not provide emergency medical services. If your child is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest ER immediately. Do not call Summus first.
*Medically reviewed by Dr. Nancy Creech, SVP of Clinical Operations at Summus