Being a first time parent is an exciting time of life. Many parents feel a joy and wonder as they meet their baby for the first time and start a life together. However, there are also many challenges that come with parenthood, one being how to care for a sick child. Many parents wonder when they should take their child to the doctor or when to wait it out at home. Luckily, there are some things to look for that will help you know if it is the right time to take the child to the doctor.

Is The Child Drinking and Eating?

If the child is drinking and eating normally, that is a good sign. Although the child may look and seem very sick, if they are hydrated and seem to be getting enough calories, you generally should be able to deal it with at home.

You should be concerned if you have a newborn infant who won't take a bottle or nurse and who doesn't have at least 5 wet diapers a day. The child may be dehydrated and you need to get them to the doctor. For older children, you should be looking at their eyes to make sure that they are not sunken and then checking their urine after they use the bathroom to make sure that it is mostly clear.

Is The Child Running A Fever?

A fever is a natural response to an infection in the body. When the child runs a fever, their body is doing exactly as it should to fight off the infection. 

If the fever is low grade, which is under 100.4 Fahrenheit, then you are generally ok to keep the child at home. If the fever gets any higher than this, you should call the doctor. The child may need more serious attention.

It should be mentioned that if a newborn, a child under 3 months, is running a fever, you should call the doctor no matter what. Fevers are very dangerous for a newborn.

Is The Child's Breathing Labored?

Another thing you need to look for is the child's breathing. If their chest is rising and sinking dramatically each time their breathe, then they might be straining. The breathing should also be silent, so if you hear any noises or see that their lips have a blue color, you should take them to the doctor right away.

These are just a couple questions to ask yourself to determine if the child should see a pediatric doctor.