Sick Visits Specialist
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Good Choice Pediatrics Inc.
Anslem Oparaugo, MD, MPH
Pediatrician located in Las Vegas, NV
Coming in for a sick visit is something no parent looks forward to. Dr. Oparaugo understands that caring for a sick child is stressful, and he makes every effort to make these visits to Good Choice Pediatrics as smooth and comforting as possible. You can rest assured that your child will be in good hands and that your sick visit will be the first step on a path to a healthier child. Schedule your child’s appointment online, or call the office if you think you need to come in right away.
Sick Visits Q&A
What are sick visits?
As the name suggests, sick visits are appointments made to address a specific set of symptoms. They occur in addition to -- but not as a substitute for -- routine pediatric examinations.
During your visit, Dr. Oparaugo will examine your child and perform many of the same checks that occur during regular check-ups. He’ll focus on the area of concern, and will order additional testing if needed. Urine samples, a blood draw, or imaging may be required.
When should I schedule a sick visit?
No one knows your child as well as you do. If you believe that something is amiss with your child’s health, don’t hesitate to call Good Choice Pediatrics.
You should call the office for a same-day appointment if any of the following apply:
- Fever in infants under the age of three months
- Fever higher than 104 in older children
- Fever accompanied by other symptoms
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Painful urination
Any tips for the waiting room?
The waiting room is a different experience during sick visits than it is with routine exams, but there are things you can do to make the visit easier. Be prepared by bringing a couple of your child’s favorite books or toys. Sick children can be restless and grumpy and may want to move around while waiting.
Having playthings or books from home can help your child resist the urge to touch other things in the waiting area, which will not only help protect your child from picking up new germs when he or she is already sick but will also reduce the possible spread of illness.
If, on the other hand, your child is sleepy or lethargic, he or she may prefer to curl up and be comforted on your lap while you wait for your appointment.
How can I prepare my child for a sick visit?
Hopefully, your child already has a positive impression of Good Choice Pediatrics from routine check-up appointments. Be sure to emphasize that the visit will likely help your child feel better.
If you describe the visit as “getting” to go see Dr. Oparaugo instead of “having” to go see him, you’ll create subtle positive associations. Be aware that your child will likely pick up on your stress level, so try to remain calm and positive as you prepare for the visit.
Be sure to dress your child for the weather, keeping in mind that a fever can make kids shift between feeling overly hot and having chills in just a few moments’ time.
At Good Choice Pediatrics, sick visits are an essential service provided to children and their families. Same-day, walk-in, and Saturday appointments are available as needed.
