SICK CHILD VISITS

When Your Child Is Sick

It’s important to have prompt medical attention that helps them feel better and gets them on the road to healing. We understand parents’ worry and offer same-day sick visits to quickly start the treatment your child needs.


If you have questions about your child’s health or you need to bring your child in for a sick visit, call the office so they can talk about your child’s symptoms and schedule a visit based on their health needs. 

Sick Child Visits FAQs

Click below to view the answer to commonly asked questions.

  • When Can I Schedule a Sick Visit?

    At Columbus Children’s Healthcare, we’re here to help when your child isn’t feeling well. If you're unsure whether your child needs to be seen, call our office first.


     Our experienced triage nurse is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, to ask a few questions about your child’s symptoms and help determine the most appropriate next step.


    We offer several options for sick visits:


    Same-Day Sick Visits (By Appointment):

    Appointments are available Monday through Friday during regular office hours. Calling ahead allows us to reduce your wait time and match you with the right provider.


    Walk-In Sick Clinic (Established Patients Only):

    For children over two months of age who have received their first vaccines, we offer a walk-in sick clinic on a first-come, first-served basis. This clinic is for more minor illnesses and is subject to capacity. Once full, you may be asked to schedule a same-day appointment and return later.


    If your child is experiencing more complex or chronic symptoms, we recommend scheduling an appointment with your regular provider to ensure continuity of care.


    For any sick concerns, we encourage you to call (402) 564-7200 and press option #4 to speak with our triage nurse. If she's assisting another caller, please leave your child’s name, date of birth, and reason for your call, and she will return your message as soon as possible.


  • What Happens During a Sick Child Visit?

    The goal of a sick child visit is to quickly diagnose the problem and start treatment that will help your child feel more comfortable. In addition to reviewing your child’s symptoms and medical history, a sick visit may include blood tests, a urine test, and a physical exam that includes checking your child’s heart, neck, throat, and ears.

  • What Children's Conditions Can a Sick Visit Treat?

    Sick visits treat many types of injuries and illnesses that need same-day or next-day medical care. Children’s symptoms can change quickly, so don’t hesitate to call if your child’s symptoms get worse.


    The following are some of the most common conditions treated during sick visits:


    • Flu Upper respiratory infections
    • Earaches Headaches
    • Sore throat or strep throat
    • Congestion
    • Coughs
    • Abdominal pain
    • Asthma
    • Rashes or hives
    • Allergic reactions
    • Eye discharge or infection
    • Vomiting and/or diarrhea

    We also treats minor injuries like cuts.

  • When Does My Child Need Immediate Medical Care?

    While all the conditions often treated during a sick visit have the potential to need immediate care, some symptoms are red flags that your child needs quick medical attention.


    Call us immediately for the following symptoms:


    • Fever of 100.4ºF or higher in children younger than one-year-old
    • Fever that lasts longer than three days
    • Unusual symptoms lasting more than three days
    • Persistent pain
    • Widespread rash Fever of 102ºF or higher plus other symptoms in children over one-year-old

    Other symptoms that may appear with a fever that signal a potentially serious problem include a rash, stiff neck, vomiting, and headache.


    When your child is sick, call the office as early in the day as possible so they can schedule a same-day visit if necessary.


    If you have questions about your child’s symptoms or you need to schedule a sick visit, call our office at call (402) 564-7200 and press option #4 to speak with our triage nurse.