What exactly is a pediatric patient? Is there a difference between an adult and a pediatric? If so, how big is this difference between adult and child patients? This post will discuss what makes a pediatric patient different from an adult and why it matters in treating pediatrics.
Pediatric patients are children under the age of 18. They're also known as minors, which means that, like adults, they have rights and responsibilities. In addition to these rights and responsibilities, pediatric patients require special care and accommodations because they are still growing.
Pediatricians and pediatric nurse practitioners are trained to deal with the specific needs of children. They have a general knowledge of how to care for adults but receive special training to diagnose and treat conditions that affect children. This includes treating childhood illnesses like the flu, RSV, hand foot and mouth, or chickenpox.
Should adults see pediatricians?
Pediatricians are trained to treat children, not adults. If you are an adult and see a pediatrician, likely, your problem is not related to your age. If this is the case, they cannot diagnose or treat you properly.
Instead of seeing a pediatrician, visit an adult doctor specializing in treating diseases like yours. As long as you have been seen by one of these doctors before, they will be able to help you diagnose and treat any issues related to aging.
It's essential to know the symptoms of pediatric conditions so that you can get your child the proper treatment. For example, if you suspect strep throat, you should bring your child to the office to be seen. This will help them determine whether or not antibiotics are necessary. Some other common signs and symptoms include:
● Fever
● Cough
● Sore throat
● Diarrhea or vomiting
● Rash (hives) on the skin or in the mouth
● Changes in behavior
To be considered a pediatric patient, you must be under 21. Your pediatric provider can continue to provide care for you until you turn 21 if desired.
However, some families decide that their children are old enough at around age 17 or 18 to start making their own medical decisions and thus stop going with them to each visit.
Suppose your child is still in diapers and will not be able to make any decisions on his own until long after graduating from high school (or even college). In that case, he will likely keep seeing his pediatrician until then—and even beyond!
Pediatric patients are those who are younger than 18 years old. Pediatric patients have different needs and special considerations than adult patients.
Children are more susceptible to illness and are more likely to be injured. They need special accommodations in all areas of the hospital, including:
● The Emergency Room (ER)
● The Operating Room (OR)
● Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
To help you determine whether or not to call Urgent Care Services, here's a list of symptoms that warrant a visit to your pediatrician's office immediately. If your child has any of these symptoms, don't hesitate: Call now!
● Fever (102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher)
● Painful urination or difficulty peeing
● Rash (especially if it's oozing or weeping)
● Loss of appetite and/or unwillingness to drink
● Nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea that lasts longer than 24 hours in an infant, or 48 hours in a toddler
● Convulsions, seizures, or uncontrolled movements
For more information about the symptoms you should watch out for, see our article on what are the signs of dehydration.
See a doctor if your child has any of these symptoms, especially if they're new or different from usual. As well as helping to diagnose what's wrong with your child and find the best treatment, seeing a pediatrician will also give you peace of mind.
For more information, schedule an appointment with 417 Housecalls. We have a friendly and knowledgeable staff who can give you a quote, estimate, or consultation. All our services are available at a fixed rate, so you don’t need to worry about unexpected charges when the visit is completed.
In summary, pediatric patients are those who are under the age of 18. They have unique needs that require special care and accommodations, which can be challenging to provide in an adult setting. If you are a parent and want your child to receive treatment from a pediatric provider but don't know where to start, call 417 Housecalls today!
