In Office Lab Testing: Speeding Up Your Child’s Diagnosis

Why Speed Matters in Pediatric Diagnosis

In-office lab testing brings diagnostic collection and analysis directly into the pediatric clinic, so samples never leave the building. For children and families, that means results in minutes rather than days, and a familiar, child-centered setting instead of a separate facility. This speed supports quicker treatment decisions during a single visit.

What Is In-Office Lab Testing for Kids?

In-office lab testing refers to medical tests performed at the point of care, meaning right where your child receives treatment, rather than at a separate laboratory facility. Also known as point-of-care testing (POCT), this approach delivers results within minutes, often during the same appointment. According to the National Institutes of Health, POCT can be especially valuable in pediatric settings because it shortens the time to diagnosis and reduces the anxiety families feel while waiting for answers. [1]

Rapid strep test. A throat swab that detects strep bacteria in about 10 minutes, allowing immediate treatment if positive. At Kids & Teens Primary Healthcare, we combine this with the same-visit speed you'd expect from our in-office lab, so a sore throat doesn't mean a second trip.

Urinalysis. A urine sample that can uncover urinary tract infections, dehydration, or early signs of diabetes. We run this right in our office, so results are ready before you leave—unlike sending samples out to a reference lab, which can take days.

Hemoglobin finger prick. A tiny fingerstick that checks for anemia, a common issue in growing kids. This test is quick, nearly painless, and gives us the information we need to decide if dietary changes or supplements are warranted.

Glucose. A simple blood glucose test helps screen for diabetes, a condition that requires prompt attention. When we run it in-house, we can discuss the result and next steps immediately, rather than making you wait for a callback.

Influenza and RSV. Rapid flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) tests help us identify viral infections quickly. With the result in hand during the visit, we can recommend the right treatment and isolation measures on the spot.

Pregnancy test. For teens, a confidential urine pregnancy test in our private in-office lab allows for same-appointment counseling and referrals, ensuring support without delay.

These tests are part of a broader category that point-of-care testing experts describe as inherently useful for pediatric medicine. [1] The convenience of receiving results before you leave the office is particularly valuable for children, who may be anxious about needles and unfamiliar procedures. [2] When the test happens in the same building where your child is already comfortable, the experience feels less intimidating, and you spend less time waiting for answers.

How In-Office Testing Speeds Up Your Child’s Diagnosis

A visit to the pediatrician often starts with a familiar scene: a worried parent, a fussy child, and a set of vague symptoms that could point to any number of common childhood infections. When the answer is not obvious from the physical exam alone, a lab test becomes the fastest way to tell a viral cold from a bacterial strep throat, or a mild stomach bug from a urinary tract infection. Waiting days for results from an outside laboratory means another stretch of uncertainty, and for a sick child, that delay can be especially hard to accept.

That is why in-house lab testing, also called point-of-care testing, has become a standard part of pediatric practice. Per a 2021 review in the NIH collection, point-of-care testing is well suited to settings where quick clinical decisions matter, because it brings the diagnostic step directly to the patient encounter. The same principle that makes these tests valuable in an emergency department applies just as well to a routine sick visit: the faster the result, the sooner the treatment.

For families, the benefits are practical and emotional. Instead of making a separate trip to a laboratory, scheduling another appointment, and waiting by the phone for a callback, parents walk out of the office with answers in hand. This speed lets the pediatrician discuss findings and start treatment during the same visit or a short follow‑up, reducing anxiety for families. At Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare in Decatur, Georgia, the same-visit model means your child's care plan is built on the test result, not on guesswork.

Faster Results Mean Faster Treatment

When a child has a fever, sore throat, or ear pain, the most helpful intervention is usually the correct medication. With in-office testing, the pediatrician can run a rapid strep test, a urine analysis, or a quick blood test right away. A 2022 article from the journal International Journal Of Community Medicine And Public Health highlights how point-of-care testing in primary care settings improves patient outcomes by allowing earlier diagnosis and treatment. The takeaway is simple: what you can diagnose in minutes, you can treat in minutes.

Consider a child with a high fever who may have the flu. A rapid influenza test at the point of care can yield a result in under 15 minutes, allowing the provider to prescribe antiviral medication within the recommended window. Delaying that test until the next day, or sending the sample to an outside lab, could push the start of treatment past its most effective moment. In this way, the speed of the test directly supports a better outcome for your child.

Beyond treatment, faster results also reduce unnecessary antibiotic use. When a rapid test shows a viral infection, the pediatrician can confidently advise against antibiotics, which helps combat antimicrobial resistance. This dual benefit, quicker answers and more precise prescribing, is why in-house testing is a cornerstone of high-quality pediatric care.

Less Anxiety for Children and Parents

A trip to the lab is often the most stressful part of a sick visit for a child. The unfamiliar environment, the long wait, and the uncertainty of when results will arrive all contribute to anxiety. In-house testing minimizes that stress by keeping the entire process in the familiar exam room. A 2021 article in the journal Clinical Laboratory Management describes how rapid pediatric blood tests can provide results within hours, thanks to the same point-of-care technology that makes same-visit testing possible.

For younger children, the fear of the unknown is often worse than the actual test. Parents can help by preparing their child ahead of time, and the experts at the National Library of Medicine recommend using simple, honest language and avoiding false promises. To that end, the practice at Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare follows a similar approach: a gentle, reassuring environment where the pediatrician or lab technician explains each step in kid-friendly terms, making the process feel like a normal part of the visit rather than an ordeal.

This approach builds long-term trust in healthcare. A child who has a positive first experience with a needle stick or a throat swab is less likely to fear future medical visits. That trust pays off in the teen years, when adolescents might otherwise avoid discussing sensitive health concerns. Knowing that testing is quick and painless encourages them to seek care when it matters most.

The Role of In-Office Lab Services

At Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare, the in-office lab is more than just a convenience; it's a tool for better health outcomes. The practice offers a range of services that support the pediatrics ethos, including rapid strep tests, urinalysis, hemoglobin checks, and more. Being able to run these tests on site means fewer missed school days for children and fewer missed work hours for parents, a real-world benefit that busy families notice. According to the National Institutes of Health, point-of-care testing is particularly helpful in pediatric primary care because it allows for immediate clinical decision-making.

The difference from traditional reference labs is clear. While a large diagnostic company might process samples in batch runs and return results in 24 to 48 hours, an in-house lab provides answers during the same visit. That comparison matters for your family's peace of mind. Instead of waiting for a phone call and a follow-up conversation, you leave the office with a full understanding of what's wrong and what happens next.

Of course, not every test is appropriate for the point of care. Some samples still need to be sent to a central laboratory for specialized analysis, such as cultures or genetic testing. But for the most common childhood illnesses, the in-house model has a distinct advantage. This integration of speed and scope is what sets Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare apart from a more fragmented approach, where your child's lab work and primary care might be handled by different teams.

Preparing Your Child for a Lab Test

A little preparation goes a long way in making the experience easier for everyone. The American Association for Clinical Chemistry (via MedlinePlus) offers a helpful guide on how to prepare your child for a lab test, with practical tips like bringing a comfort item and having a reward planned. For older kids and teens, a small prize or a favorite snack afterward can turn a potentially negative event into a positive one.

At the practice, the team understands that a confident parent makes for a calmer child. That's why they take the time to explain each step, answer questions, and offer a distraction when needed. For example, a nurse might let your child hold a stuffed animal during a finger prick, or use a countdown to make the procedure feel like a game. These small touches, combined with the speed of in-office testing, mean your child is back to feeling like a kid in no time.

A Closer Look at Common In-Office Tests

Rapid Strep Test. A throat swab that detects strep bacteria in minutes. If positive, the pediatrician can prescribe antibiotics right away, preventing complications like rheumatic fever. Common in febrile children with sore throat.

Urinalysis. A simple urine test that can indicate a urinary tract infection, kidney issues, or dehydration. A positive result may prompt a follow-up culture to confirm the specific bacteria.

Hemoglobin Test. A finger-prick test that screens for anemia, a common issue in growing children, especially those with iron-poor diets or heavy menstrual periods.

Rapid Flu Test. A quick nasal swab that can tell the difference between influenza and other respiratory viruses, guiding the use of antiviral medication.

RSV Test. A test for respiratory syncytial virus, a leading cause of bronchiolitis in infants. Rapid results help parents know whether their child needs closer monitoring.

These tests, when offered in-house, allow the pediatrician to address multiple possible causes for your child's symptoms in a single visit. For example, a child with a fever, cough, and sore throat might receive a rapid strep test and a flu swab at the same appointment, giving the care team a more complete picture. This comprehensive approach is more efficient for the clinic and more reassuring for you.

Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare: A Trusted Partner in Care

The philosophy that guides in-office testing at Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare mirrors best practices from leading academic centers. The National Cancer Institute's PDQ summary on pediatric supportive care notes that point-of-care testing in children's oncology provides timely results that reduce distress from repeat blood draws. While many of those reference oncology care, the underlying principle applies directly to general pediatrics: fast, accurate results deliver real clinical and emotional value.

For a practice that cares for patients from birth to age 21, the ability to adapt to a child's changing needs is essential. A toddler needs a different approach than a teenager, and the staff at Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare tailors their lab experience accordingly. Whether it's a distraction game for a preschooler or a frank conversation with an adolescent about test results, the goal is the same: make the child feel safe and well-cared-for.

In a world where waiting is often the norm, the speed of in-house lab testing is a quiet differentiator. It shortens the path to recovery, reduces parental anxiety, and helps your child get back to the business of being a kid. When you choose a practice that invests in this kind of service, you're choosing more than just a check-up; you're choosing a healthcare home that prioritizes speed, comfort, and comprehensive care.

The Broader Implications for Your Family's Experience

In the end, the value of in-house lab testing is not just in the speed of a single test result. It's in the way that speed transforms the entire visit. When a pediatrician can confirm a diagnosis on the spot, they can address questions immediately, adjust treatment plans in real time, and provide parents with the peace of mind that comes from certainty. This level of service changes the patient experience, turning a potentially stressful event into a straightforward, even pleasant, encounter.

Parents often tell stories of having to juggle multiple trips, phone tag with busy nurses, and the agonizing wait for results that may or may not come in on time. In-office testing eliminates those hassles. It puts the clinical answers directly into the hands of the care team, so they can focus on what matters most: your child's health and well-being. This is a core reason why Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare has made same-visit lab testing a cornerstone of its practice, and why so many families in the Decatur community trust them for their children's healthcare needs.

Advantages and Considerations of Point-of-Care Testing

When a child is sick, waiting days for lab results can feel like an eternity. In-office lab testing, also called point-of-care testing (POCT), lets your pediatrician run certain tests right where you are, getting results during that same visit. This speed matters because in-office lab testing for kids allows the doctor to discuss findings and start treatment immediately, reducing anxiety for both you and your child.

How Fast Results Change Care

Instead of sending samples out and waiting for a call, in-office testing brings the lab to you. The benefits of point-of-care testing are well documented in emergency settings, but they apply just as well to pediatric primary care. Faster answers mean fewer return visits, less time worrying, and a clearer path to treatment on the spot.

For example, a rapid strep test or a quick urinalysis can be completed while your child is still in the exam room. This lets the pediatrician decide then and there whether antibiotics are needed, rather than waiting a day or two. According to research on point-of-care testing, rapid diagnostic tests in children can reduce the overuse of antibiotics and improve parent satisfaction by providing immediate answers.

What to Expect During an In-Office Lab Test

Many parents worry about how their child will handle a blood draw or a throat swab. The good news is that preparing your child for a lab test doesn't have to be stressful. Pediatric offices like Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare are used to working with children and use techniques to make the process faster and less frightening.

Before the test, your pediatrician will explain what will happen in simple terms. For a blood draw, they might use a finger prick instead of a traditional venipuncture, which is quicker and less painful. Urine tests, throat swabs, and rapid flu or RSV tests are all common in-office procedures that don't require sending anything away.

The Role of In-Office Testing in Preventing Illness

In addition to immediate diagnosis, in-office testing helps with prevention. For example, when a fever requires medical attention, a quick lab test can reveal whether it's a bacterial infection that needs antibiotics or a viral infection that just needs supportive care. This prevents unnecessary antibiotic use, which is a major concern in pediatric care.

Rapid tests for strep, influenza, and RSV can be done right in the office, giving you a diagnosis within minutes. This is especially valuable during cold and flu season when anxious parents need answers fast. Point-of-care testing in primary care has been shown to improve clinical outcomes by enabling earlier treatment and reducing the need for follow-up appointments.

Why Choose Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare for In-Office Testing

At Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare, we offer a range of in-office lab tests that are designed with children in mind. Unlike sending your child to a separate lab, we complete the process in one visit. This means less trauma for your child and more convenience for you. Our in-office lab testing page explains how we prepare children for these tests, from avoiding false promises to offering post-procedure rewards.

We also understand that some parents prefer to have as few interruptions as possible. That's why we schedule enough time for lab work during your appointment, so you don't have to worry about making a separate trip. Our team is experienced with infants, children, and teens, and we use child-friendly techniques that are less intimidating than a hospital setting.

Common Tests Done In-Office

Here are some of the most common in-office lab tests we offer:

1. Rapid strep test
2. Urinalysis for urinary tract infections
3. Hemoglobin (finger prick) to check for anemia
4. Glucose screening for diabetes
5. Pregnancy test for teens
6. Rapid flu and RSV tests
7. Influenza testing
8. Cholesterol and lipid profile for at-risk teens

These tests cover a wide range of concerns, from the common cold to more serious conditions. For example, a rapid blood test for pediatric infections can speed up diagnosis and treatment, potentially reducing the length of illness.

How to Prepare Your Child

Preparation is key to a smooth experience. Here are some tips from our guide on preparing your child for a lab test:

• Explain the test in simple, reassuring terms before you arrive.
• Avoid showing anxiety; children pick up on your emotions.
• For blood tests, ensure your child is well-hydrated unless told otherwise.
• Bring a comfort item like a favorite toy or book.
• Plan a small reward for after the procedure, like a sticker or treat.

For more detailed advice, the NIH's guide on preparing your child for a lab test offers evidence-based recommendations. It emphasizes the importance of building trust and using honest but gentle language.

What to Do If You're Concerned

If you're unsure whether your child needs an in-office lab test, don't hesitate to call. Our team can help you decide if a test is necessary based on your child's symptoms and medical history. We're here to guide you through the process, from the moment you book your appointment to the moment you get the results.

As the table shows, the difference in wait time is dramatic. Instead of waiting a day or two, you leave with answers the same day. This is especially important for conditions where early treatment matters, such as bacterial infections that can worsen rapidly.

The Bottom Line

In-office lab testing is a powerful tool in pediatric primary care. It reduces anxiety, speeds up treatment, and improves outcomes. At Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare, we're committed to making this process as smooth as possible for you and your child. If you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment, contact us today.

Preparing Your Child for a Calmer Lab Experience

A blood draw can feel intimidating for a child, and a big part of the anxiety is simply not knowing what to expect. Preparation reduces that fear, and a few simple steps can make the experience calmer for everyone. Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare teams with parents to create a positive lab experience, and you can start building that foundation at home.

Bring a comfort item like a favorite toy or blanket, and plot a small reward for after the test, such as a visit to the park or a special snack. The How to Prepare Your Child for a Lab Test guide from MedlinePlus recommends using honest, age-appropriate language instead of promising pain-free procedures. You might say, "It will feel like a quick pinch," rather than, "You won't feel a thing," so that the actual experience doesn't feel like a betrayal of trust.

Warmth helps, too. Encourage your child to sit on your lap with their arm extended, which promotes blood flow and can make the draw faster and more comfortable. At Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare, the in-house lab is designed to be kid-friendly, so you don't have to drive to a separate facility or wait days for transport. This speed lets the pediatrician discuss findings and start treatment during the same visit or a short follow-up, reducing anxiety for families. In-Office Pediatric Lab Testing: What Parents Should Know explains how this streamlined approach keeps children calm and helps care begin sooner.

What to Do on Test Day

1. Pack a small comfort item and a favorite snack or drink to offer after the draw.
2. Dress your child in short sleeves or easy-to-roll-up sleeves to make the arm accessible.
3. Arrive a few minutes early to allow for check-in without rushing.

Keeping your own demeanor relaxed signals to your child that there's nothing to fear. If you're anxious, they pick up on it. Take slow breaths and speak in a calm tone. For more detailed guidance on minimizing distress during the collection, the Point-of-Care Testing resource from StatPearls (NIH) outlines practical techniques that apply well to pediatric visits.

When Are Lab Tests Recommended for Children and Teens?

A blood draw can be one of the most stressful parts of a pediatric visit for both children and parents. Fear of needles, anticipation of pain, and unfamiliar surroundings can make even a simple test feel overwhelming. Fortunately, preparation and a calm approach can transform the experience. For many families, in-office lab testing at a trusted pediatric practice reduces that anxiety because the environment is designed specifically for children and teens, and results are often available before you leave.

Start with honest, age-appropriate communication. Younger children respond well to simple, concrete language that avoids scary words like "stick" or "pain." For older kids and teens, explaining what the test is for and what to expect builds trust. According to MedlinePlus, avoiding false promises like "it won't hurt" and instead offering a reward after the procedure can make children more cooperative and less fearful. For additional tips, you can prepare your child for a lab test with guidance that emphasizes patience and positive reinforcement.

Distraction and Positioning Techniques

During the actual draw, distraction is a proven tool. Simple techniques like blowing bubbles, counting backward, or watching a favorite video on a parent's phone can redirect attention away from the procedure. What matters most is a calm, confident presence from the parent. Your own anxiety can transfer to your child, so taking slow, deep breaths together helps. For infants and toddlers, holding them securely on a parent's lap provides comfort and a sense of control.

At Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare, the clinical team is experienced in working with children of all ages and uses these techniques routinely. In contrast to a general lab where a child may feel like just another number, the practice's pediatric-focused approach means every step, from greeting to blood draw, is tailored to a child's developmental stage.

The Value of In-Office Testing for Prompt Results

One of the biggest advantages of in-office lab testing is the speed of results. Instead of waiting days for a phone call, families often leave the appointment with answers. This is especially valuable for diagnosing infections like strep throat or urinary tract infections, where early treatment can prevent complications. A study in the International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health highlights the benefits of point-of-care testing in primary care, noting faster clinical decisions and reduced patient anxiety. Pediatric-specific guidance from NIH's StatPearls further notes that point-of-care testing improves turnaround times and patient satisfaction in pediatric settings.

For parents, that immediacy translates to fewer worried phone calls, less uncertainty, and faster peace of mind. When a result comes back abnormal, the pediatrician can discuss next steps immediately, whether that means starting an antibiotic, adjusting a medication, or scheduling a follow-up. This same-visit workflow is a hallmark of the practice's in-office lab testing for kids.

What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Understanding what happens during a pediatric lab visit can help you prepare your child and yourself. While every practice is a bit different, a typical visit follows this pattern:

• Check-in and intake: A staff member confirms the reason for the test, reviews any preparation steps, and answers questions. At Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare, check-in is designed to be quick and kid-friendly.
• Positioning: For infants and young children, sitting on a parent's lap is the most comfortable and secure position. For older kids, sitting upright with the arm extended works well.
• The blood draw: The phlebotomist or pediatric nurse cleans the area, applies a tourniquet, and inserts a small needle. Many practices use topical numbing cream or a warm compress to minimize discomfort.
• Post-procedure care: A cotton ball and bandage are applied, and the child is given time to relax. Some practices offer a sticker or a small prize, which goes a long way in building positive associations.
• Results and follow-up: Results are shared with the family, and if further testing is needed, the pediatrician explains the next steps clearly.

Because Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare performs lab work in the office, the entire process, from check-in to results, often takes less than an hour. That contrasts with a standalone lab where you might wait in a separate waiting room and then return days later for results. The convenience is a clear win for busy families.

Special Considerations for Infants and Young Children

Infants and toddlers have smaller veins, thinner skin, and a harder time sitting still, which makes them more challenging to draw blood from. Pediatric phlebotomists use techniques like warming the site and using smaller needles. Parents can help by dressing their child in short sleeves or loose clothing to make the arm accessible. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents stay calm and informed, as their demeanor directly influences their child's reaction.

For newborns, especially those needing a heel prick for newborn screening, the sensation is different from a traditional blood draw. Reassuring touch, a pacifier, or swaddling can help soothe them. The practice's in-office lab services are equipped to handle these delicate procedures under the guidance of experienced pediatric staff.

When a Lab Test Is Urgent: Recognizing the Signs

Some lab tests are routine, while others are prompted by symptoms. Parents should know when a fever, persistent vomiting, or difficulty breathing warrants immediate attention. The practice's guidance on fevers emphasizes that a pediatrician's evaluation, potentially including rapid strep or flu tests, can quickly identify the cause and avoid unnecessary antibiotics. In urgent situations, point-of-care testing in the clinic can deliver results in minutes, allowing for prompt treatment decisions. This aligns with research from the Health Innovation Network that highlights the role of rapid testing in reducing diagnostic delays in children with infections.

These examples show how in-office testing can turn a concerning symptom into a clear diagnosis and treatment plan. When a test is needed, the pediatrician can order it right in the clinic, and the family leaves with answers, not just a referral to another facility.

Building Positive Associations for Long-Term Health

Every positive interaction with a lab test builds a child's health literacy and comfort. Over time, kids who understand why tests happen are more likely to cooperate and less likely to develop a lifelong fear of needles. Parents play a crucial role by talking openly, staying calm, and framing the test as a normal part of staying healthy.

At Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare, the team is dedicated to making every visit as stress-free as possible. From the moment you walk in, the focus is on your child's comfort. For more information on what to expect and how to support your child, explore the practice's resources on lab testing and preparation guidance.

Getting Answers Sooner, Together

Children are not small adults, and that truth shapes how labs work for them. From the moment a child walks into a pediatric practice, the approach to testing differs in ways that go far beyond needle size. Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare builds its entire lab experience around the realities of pediatric physiology, family dynamics, and the need for speed when a young immune system is fighting an infection.

One of the biggest differences is the range of normal values. A hemoglobin level that flags anemia in an adult may be completely healthy for a toddler, and bilirubin changes rapidly in newborns. Pediatric reference ranges account for age, sex, and developmental stage, so results are interpreted against what is normal for that specific child, not a one-size-fits-all adult standard. This is why generic walk-in labs often miss the mark for kids.

Then there is the human side. A child who feels nervous or hungry may struggle to produce a urine sample or sit still for a blood draw. Pediatric practices are set up to minimize that stress. At Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare, we know that the environment matters as much as the science. We take the time to explain the process in kid-friendly terms and coordinate with parents on preparation, whether that means fasting or just offering encouragement. As MedlinePlus explains, a calm approach genuinely changes how a child tolerates a test.

Reference ranges. Pediatric values shift with age and development; adult baselines are irrelevant for a 6-month-old or a 15-year-old.

Sample size. Young children have smaller blood volume; labs use microcollection techniques and finger pricks to avoid drawing too much.

Sample type. Urine, stool, or capillary blood may be easier and less traumatic than a venous draw for many pediatric tests.

Interpretation. Results must be read against pediatric norms, not adult cutoffs, to avoid false alarms or missed diagnoses.

Patient experience. The approach prioritizes comfort, distraction, and family involvement to reduce fear and anxiety.

Turnaround. Faster results matter more in children because conditions can escalate quickly and parents need prompt answers.

Consider also the urgency factor. In children, an elevated white blood cell count or a positive strep test can change the course of an entire week. Parents need answers fast, and they need to trust the results. That is why rapid in-office testing, where the result comes back during the same visit, is such a natural fit for pediatrics. As point-of-care testing researchers note, speeding up diagnosis can directly improve outcomes in pediatric settings.

Finally, pediatric labs are more than just a place to draw blood. They are an extension of the care relationship. When a parent walks into Kids and Teens Primary Healthcare, they are not dealing with a faceless lab technician in a distant building. They are working with people who understand how a fever that looks mild in an adult can signal something more in a toddler. That combination of physiological accuracy, emotional support, and speed is what separates pediatric-focused testing from a generic adult lab experience.

In short, when you choose a practice that runs labs specifically for children, you are choosing results that are interpreted correctly, delivered quickly, and handled with the care that a child’s health demands.