Sometimes when our nieces and nephews are left in our care, stuff happens. They get sick, they get hurt, and issues of concern arise. The following are hypothetical questions that might occur while you are taking care of the kids.  Dr. Stephanie’s responses should be read for informational and educational purposes only. While Dr. Stephanie is a real pediatrician, we strongly urge you to seek professional medical advice from your health care provider when a real health concern happens. And in case of emergency, call 911!

My 8 year old nephew forgot his inhaler at home and he’s wheezing. His parents won’t be back for a couple of days. What do I do?

If he is wheezing but not having difficulty breathing, you can just take him to his regular pediatrician as soon as possible. If his chest feels tight, he is having difficulty speaking and breathing in an abnormal way, call 911.  Asthma is a very serious illness and children can worsen quickly.  That is why it is very important he always has his Albuterol inhaler on hand.  Since he doesn’t, he needs his medication and quickly!