My Child Has a High Fever: Should I Visit the Walk-In Clinic or the ER?

 When your child’s temperature spikes, you jump into action. But what action should you take? Deciding between a scheduled appointment, a trip to our walk-in clinic, or the emergency room isn’t always obvious. 

That’s why the medical team at Gorman Medical, PC, with offices in Colorado Springs and Cripple Creek, offers the following guidelines.

When is your child’s fever an emergency?

A fever is the body's natural way of fighting off an infection. While it is often a sign that the immune system is working, certain temperatures and symptoms require immediate hospital care. For infants under three months old, any rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher is considered a medical emergency.

For older children, the number on the thermometer is only part of the story. Head to the nearest emergency room if your child has a high fever, a stiff neck, a severe headache, or a rash that looks like purple spots or tiny red dots. 

Difficulty breathing or inability to swallow are also signs that require an ER visit. If your child is unusually drowsy or fussy and cannot be comforted, you should seek emergency care immediately.

When to choose our walk-in clinic

If your child's fever does not have life-threatening symptoms, our walk-in clinic is an ideal option. We provide care for families in Colorado Springs and Cripple Creek who need medical attention without the long wait times or high costs of an emergency room.

Our experts can help if your child has a fever along with common symptoms such as an earache, sore throat, or cough. 

Most childhood fevers are caused by viral infections, which we can manage with supportive care and monitoring. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza are the leading causes of pediatric fevers, both of which we can test for and treat in our offices. 

If your child is still alert, playing occasionally, and drinking fluids, a walk-in visit is usually the most appropriate step.

Managing symptoms at home

Before you head out the door, there are steps you can take to make your child more comfortable. Keep the room cool and dress your child in lightweight clothing. Pushing fluids is vital because fevers can quickly lead to dehydration.

Dehydration is a common complication of pediatric fevers, so look for signs like fewer wet diapers or a lack of tears when crying. Use over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if your child is old enough, but always check with our specialists for the correct dosage based on your child's current weight. Never give aspirin to a child or teenager due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.

Whether you visit us in Colorado Springs or at our office in Cripple Creek, we prioritize quick assessments to give you peace of mind and help your little one feel their best again.

Use our walk-in clinic for urgent issues. To book an appointment, call our nearest office or use the online booking form.