Kids & Urgent Care: What Parents Should Know Before Your Visit
Kids & Urgent Care: What Parents Should Know Before Your Visit
When your child is sick or injured unexpectedly, knowing how to prepare for an urgent care visit can reduce stress and speed up treatment. At Pronto Urgent Care Fort Lauderdale, we welcome pediatric patients age 6 months and older. This guide helps parents understand what to expect and how to make the experience as calm and efficient as possible.
Common Pediatric Issues Treated
Pronto Urgent Care treats a variety of non-life-threatening conditions in children, including:
- Fever & Viral Illnesses: Fevers, colds, flu, COVID-19 testing
- Ear & Throat Infections: Otitis media, strep throat
- Minor Injuries: Sprains, strains, small fractures (X-ray on-site)
- Wound Care: Cuts, scrapes, stitches for minor lacerations
- Rashes & Skin Conditions: Allergic reactions, dermatitis, insect bites
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea (dehydration assessment and IV fluids)
If your child’s symptoms are severe (e.g., high fever unresponsive to medication, difficulty breathing, uncontrolled bleeding), head to the nearest ER or call 911.
What to Bring for Your Child
Packing the right items helps everything run smoothly at check-in:
- Identification & Insurance Card: Parent’s ID and child’s insurance information.
- Medication List: Current prescriptions, dosages, and any over-the-counter meds taken.
- Immunization Records: Helps providers stay up to date on vaccines.
- Comfort Items: Favorite toy, blanket, or pacifier to reduce anxiety.
- Recent Vital Signs: Home-recorded temperature, fluid intake, and output (diaper changes).
- Pre-Visit Paperwork: Complete any online registration forms beforehand if available.
Preparing Your Child and Yourself
Reducing fear and uncertainty makes a big difference:
- Explain What Will Happen
- Use age-appropriate language: “The doctor will count your heartbeats and look at your throat.”
- Role-Play at Home
- Pretend to give a vaccine with a toy or draw a friendly picture.
- Schedule Wisely
- Visit during off-peak hours (mornings or early afternoons on weekdays) to minimize waits.
- Stay Calm
- Children pick up on parental stress—deep breaths and reassurance help.
What to Expect During the Visit
The typical pediatric visit at our Fort Lauderdale clinic includes:
- Triage & Vital Signs
- Nurse takes temperature, heart rate, and checks hydration.
- Provider Assessment
- Examining ears, throat, lungs, and any injury sites.
- On-Site Diagnostics
- X-rays for suspected fractures
- Lab tests: rapid strep, flu, or COVID-19 swabs
- Treatment & Education
- Prescriptions, wound care instructions, or referrals
- Aftercare Plan
- Detailed instructions on dosing, symptom monitoring, and follow-up.
Average total visit time: 30–60 minutes depending on diagnostics needed.
Aftercare & Follow-Up Tips
- Medication Compliance: Use pill organizers or reminder alarms for dosing.
- Hydration & Rest: Encourage fluids and quiet activities.
- Watch for Red Flags: Increased fever, rash spreading, difficulty breathing.
- Schedule Follow-Up: Primary care appointment within 3–5 days if symptoms persist.
Cost & Insurance Information (Average Costs in Fort Lauderdale)
| Service | Self‑Pay Cost | Insured Copay |
|---|---|---|
| Pediatric Urgent Care Visit | $75–$125 | $10–$50 |
| X-ray (extremity) | +$50–$75 | Covered |
| Rapid Strep/Flu/COVID Test | $50–$90 | Covered |
- Self‑Pay Discounts: Ask about family package rates.
- We accept all major insurers, Medicaid (for children), and Medicare.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What ages do you treat?
We treat children 6 months and older for a variety of urgent care needs.
Do I need an appointment?
No—walk in anytime during our posted hours; no appointment required.
Can I stay with my child?
Yes—one parent or guardian may accompany pediatric patients throughout the visit.
Are vaccines available?
We offer select vaccines (flu, Tdap) for children per CDC guidelines—check availability.
