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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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.

Latest Posts

father and son in a pool smiling together

Delayed Symptoms of Drowning: Know the Signs

Jul 09, 2024

As it turns out, the overwhelming majority of kids with a close call in the water do fine, but a few don’t. Knowing the signs and symptoms of drowning—and what to do if they occur—can mean the difference between life and death.   Read More

The Danger of Fireworks

Jun 27, 2024

As summer rolls around, families eagerly anticipate celebrations and other festivities accompanied by the dazzling spectacle of fireworks. While these displays bring joy and excitement, it's crucial to remember that fireworks pose significant risks, especially to children and young adults. Read More

boy laying down grabbing his head

Emergency Department Guidelines for Headaches: When to Worry

Apr 18, 2024

Headaches in children can stem from a variety of causes, including stress, poor nutrition, dehydration, and disruptions in daily routines. Recognizing your child’s triggers and understanding different headache types are crucial in determining whether a trip to the emergency department is necessary. Read More

Cough Talk: What Does All That Hacking Mean?

Nov 01, 2023

Coughs are often associated with the common cold and there’s little you can do, other than try to ease the symptoms. However, a lot of coughing, especially in babies under four months old, could be a sign of a serious illness. 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

doctor, wearing a face mask, examining patients mouth, while parent looks on.

Winter Viruses Make a Summer Return

Aug 24, 2021

You may have noticed an uptick in kids and adults suffering from nasal congestion, sore throat, cough and fever. These viruses are typically seen during the winter months, but this year is different… we are seeing them in the summer! Read More

Mother and daughter washing their hands at kitchen sink

The Importance of Handwashing

Dec 10, 2020

We know the simple act of handwashing is a powerful way to protect ourselves from infection. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly two million young children die each year from illnesses that can be prevented by washing hands with soap and water. Read More

Doctor examining child's ear

Ear Infections: Why Kids May Not Need 10 Days of Antibiotics

Feb 04, 2020

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) updated their recommendations for treating childhood ear infections in 2013. The current guideline states that a full ten days of antibiotics may not be necessary for children over two years of age with non-severe ear infections. Read More