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Warning-sign checks

Well-child visits: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, collapse, unresponsiveness, a seizure, or other signs of a severe allergic reaction.

    Emergency help is also appropriate if your child is in immediate danger of harming themselves or someone else.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical advice if your child develops worsening pain, marked injection-site swelling, persistent vomiting, unusual sleepiness, or symptoms that concern you after the visit.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    For routine advice, contact the clinic if you have questions about results, referrals, vaccine reactions, growth, development, learning, behaviour, or emotional well-being.

    Also call if expected results do not arrive within the timeframe the clinic gave you.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Well-child visits. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.