When Should I Seek Urgent Care For My Child? Top Red Flags Parents Should Never Ignore

When does a fever warrant an Urgent Care Centre visit? What should I do if my child takes a hard fall? Here’s how parents can spot common red flags in their children’s health and when to seek urgent care.

Parenthood comes with one inevitability: our kids fall sick and get hurt more often than we’d like! But how do we tell if a fever or cough is something more serious? Or when does a tumble take a turn for the worse? Here are some common warning signs parents should look out for and how to tell if something requires urgent care versus routine care.

Common warning signs to look out for

When should a flu/cough be taken more seriously?
If your little one is experiencing a prolonged high fever, persistent coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or trouble breathing, it could indicate an asthma attack or pneumonia. In these situations, we’d recommend heading to an urgent care centre immediately. (Source) (Source) (Source)

Should I bring my child to the Urgent Care Centre (UCC) if they’ve fallen down?
Accidents happen, but not every tumble requires a Urgent Care Centre (UCC) visit. If your little one has fallen, watch for warning signs like a brief loss of consciousness, persistent pain, unusual drowsiness, visible facial injuries or any limb deformities. These symptoms could indicate a concussion or fracture. In such cases, we recommend heading to the UCC. But if it’s only a minor cut or bruise, then there’s no need to worry! Usually, a bandage and some cuddles will do. Just be sure to monitor them closely, trust your parental instinct and see a doctor for peace of mind. (Source)

My kid has a rash – is this normal?
It’s natural to worry when your child suddenly breaks out in rashes, as they could be a sign of an allergic reaction. However, most rashes, such as eczema or chickenpox, may require a visit to a GP or pediatrician for a closer look. Plus, heat rashes are common in Singapore due to its hot, humid climate! But if you notice your child’s rash is accompanied by swelling of the lips, tongue or throat and vomiting, it could signal a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. (Source)

Other red flags to look out for:

• Seizures/convulsions: If your child is experiencing fits or seizures for the first time (with or without fever) or having fits longer than 5 minutes or after a fall/injury. (Source)
• Scalds and burn injuries: Unless the injuries are mild (e.g. first degree), all burn injuries need to be reviewed by a doctor. Take your child to an urgent care centre if they have blisters with affected skin peeling off, if the burn involves the face, neck, hands, feet or genitalia, persistent fever and/or pus discharge. Immediate medical attention is needed if your child has been exposed to fire/smoke and shows the following signs: hoarse voice, soot in nostrils/throat, drowsiness and singed eyebrows. (Source)
• Blood in vomit/stool: If your child has blood in their vomit or stool, it’s a sign they need immediate medical attention, especially if they seem lightheaded, are dehydrated or have abdominal pain. (Source)
• Bumps & bruises: If your child is less than 6 months old and has fallen from a height of more than 90cm, is drowsy or very irritable and experiences weakness in their limb, head to urgent care immediately. (Source)
• Fever: Bring your child to a UCC if their fever is accompanied by severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, confusion, inability to keep fluids down, unusual skin colour or lethargy or if the fever lasts longer than three days. (Source)

Finding a doctor for urgent and routine care

Understanding when to choose general paediatric care versus urgent care can help minimise any anxieties you may have because you’re able to make better-informed decisions on what your child needs at that moment.

If you’re uncertain about your child’s symptoms or need a more thorough assessment, a consultation at Parkway MediCentre with paediatricians Dr Kao Pao-Tang and Dr Agnes Tay can help. Both doctors bring decades of experience in paediatric care, supporting children with everything from general paediatric care to more urgent care needs. They’re also able to provide guidance on “Childhood Trauma Indicators,” helping you address any physical, mental or emotional health concerns you may have for your kids.

The clinic is open daily between 9am and 5pm, with extended hours until 8.30pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. It is also open on Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 1pm, making it more convenient to bring your kids in at a time that fits your schedule. Teleconsultations are also available, allowing parents to pre-book sessions with their paediatric specialists.

Parkway MediCentre, The Woodleigh Mall, #02-25/26/27, 11 Bidadari Park Drive, Singapore 367803, Tel: (+65) 6229 6880 & (+65) 9730 2799 (WhatsApp Enquiries), www.parkwaymedicentre.com.sg