Your Child's Health - Be Prepared

Ask your child's PCP:

• How can I reach you when the office is closed?
• Where is the closest emergency room and when should I use it?
• What should I do when my child has a fever?
• When can I give acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin)? Ask your child’s PCP for a prescription for one of these.
• What should I do when my child is vomiting or has diarrhea?
• What should I do when my child complains of an earache?
• What should I do when my child has a cold or sore throat?

Prevention of Illness:

• Make sure that your child eats well and gets plenty of sleep and exercise.
• Feed a baby in an upright position. Don’t let a baby fall asleep with a bottle in the mouth.
• Keep cigarette smoke away from your child.
• Wash your hands frequently. Teach your child to wash his or her hands often.
• Take your child regularly for checkups and required immunizations (shots).
• Limit closeness to other adults and children who are sick.

Be Prepared - Keep the Following Information Handy

When you need medical advice, remember to call your child’s primary care provider (PCP) first. Same day appointments can usually be made if your child is sick. Ask what you can do at home while you are waiting for the PCP to see your child.

You may also call the Nurse Advice Line, available 24 hrs. a day, at 1-800-606-9880.

If you are a person with a hearing impairment, you may call the TDD/TTY number, 1-800-648-6056.