700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

Posts by Mike Patrick, MD

Posted by: Mike Patrick, MD on Jan 27, 2026

Middle-of-the-night earache? Weekend sports injury? Not every illness or accident needs the ER—but not every urgent care is right for kids, either. Learn how to tell what’s an emergency, what can wait, and how to choose an urgent care center with true pediatric expertise, including options from Nationwide Children’s in Central Ohio.

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When Kids Go Missing: What Parents Need to Know
Worried about how to explain stranger safety without causing anxiety? These expert-backed tips can help you guide the conversation with clarity, compassion and confidence.
Close-up of a smartphone lying on a wooden surface with a USB charging cable positioned near the charging port, ready to be connected.
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Safe Charging of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day, from smartphones to electric scooters. When handled incorrectly, these batteries can overheat, catch fire, or even explode. Learn practical tips for safe charging, storage, and disposal to keep your family and home protected.

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About this Blog

Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

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Latest Posts

doctor checking a child's lungs with a stethoscope

RSV and Bronchiolitis: What Do I Need to Know?

Oct 18, 2023

Bronchiolitis is a viral disease and pretty common at this time of year. In fact, the majority of bronchiolitis is caused by a virus known as RSV, which infects nearly all children by 2 years of age. Read More

baby

Belly Button 101: Umbilical Care in Newborns

Jul 13, 2023

The umbilical cord has an important job prior to the birth of your baby. Learn proper newborn umbilical care from our experts. Read More

Kid with big sunglasses

Travel Tips for Potty Training

Jun 30, 2023

It’s inevitable. At some point during potty training, you will need to step out of your child’s comfort zone and embark on an adventure that requires planning and public restroom facilities. Following a few simple tips, along with plenty of practice and patience, will build confidence in your toddler’s ability to stay dry during family excursions. Read More

children playing

The Power of Play in Childhood

Apr 04, 2023

Playtime in childhood is an age-old distraction, one that gives parents an opportunity to complete grown-up tasks. However, while you are paying bills or cooking or cleaning, your children are discovering their abilities and learning how to plan, organize, get along with others and regulate their emotions. Read More

Parent and child in emergency room with doctor

5 Questions Parents Need to Ask Before Leaving the Emergency Room

Mar 16, 2023

A sick child is every parent’s concern. Most aim to alleviate their kid’s discomfort at home and follow up with their pediatrician, but when an emergency room visit is required, that concern can become overwhelming. Read More

holding hands

Sepsis, Informed Consent, and the PRoMPT BOLUS Study

Jan 26, 2023

Learn from our experts about sepsis, informed consent, and the PRoMPT BOLUS study. Read More

bed bugs

Bed Bugs 101

Jan 24, 2023

Yuck. This year five Ohio cities made a list no one wants to be on. “Orkin’s 2023 Top Bed Bug Cities” compiled data based on metro areas where Orkin performed the most bed bug treatments from December 1, 2021 – November 30, 2022. Read More

The Importance of Vitamin D and Being Outside

Spending Time Outdoors Promotes Good Mental Health

May 16, 2022

As temperatures warm and days grow longer, spending time outdoors can positively affect mental and physical health. From improving mood to increasing activity levels, nature can nurture us. Read More