Exciting Updates for 2025: New Tools, Winter Tips, and Important Changes!

Exciting News:
Your Online KCP Patient Portal is Launching 
January 30, 2025

We’re thrilled to announce that our new patient portal will be launching on January 30, 2025! This portal will provide convenient, 24/7 access to your child’s health information and streamline many aspects of your experience with Kids Central Pediatrics.

Features include:

• Access to medical records & charts 

• Prescription information 

• Online Appointment scheduling 

• Appointment reminders 

• Messaging Center

• Online bill pay

An invitation email with instructions on how to register for the portal will be in your email inbox on January 30. We can’t wait for you to take advantage of this new tool to make managing your child’s health even easier!

New Year, Healthy Start:
Winter Wellness Tips for Kids

As we welcome the new year, it’s the perfect time to focus on your child’s health and wellness! Here are some practical tips to keep your kids happy and healthy during the colder months:

• Nutrition: Ensure balanced meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

• Hydration: Encourage drinking water, even when it’s cold outside.

• Physical Activity: Keep kids active indoors with fun activities like dance parties or obstacle courses.

• Hygiene: Regular handwashing can prevent the spread of seasonal illnesses.

If you have any concerns about your child’s health, we’re here to help. Schedule your child’s wellness visit today!

Flu Season Update:
Protect Your Family

Learn more about flu symptoms, treatments, and when to call your pediatrician here.

Flu season is in full swing, and it’s not too late to get vaccinated! Flu vaccines are available for children and are a vital tool to protect your family. Here’s what you need to know:

• Flu Statistics: According to the CDC, flu-related hospitalizations among children younger than 5 years old average around 7,000 annually in the U.S. Tragically, flu complications result in 100–200 pediatric deaths each year.

• Recognize Symptoms Early: Fever, chills, muscle aches, and fatigue are common signs of the flu.

• Seek Medical Attention: If your child’s symptoms worsen, contact us right away.

• Get Vaccinated: Studies show that flu vaccination reduces the risk of serious illness by 40–60%, even if your child contracts the flu.

Schedule your child’s flu shot today. Let’s work together to keep your family healthy this winter!

Meet the Provider:
Kristi Rutherford, CPNP

Accepting New Patients at Our Lenoir City Clinic

We are excited to introduce Kristi Rutherford, CPNP, at our Lenoir City office. With a wealth of experience and a deep passion for pediatric medicine, Kristi is accepting new patients and looks forward to partnering with families in our community. 

Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Kristi is the youngest of 7 siblings in a large, loving family.  She attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham(UAB), where she was a member of the university Golden Girls dance team.  After graduating, Kristi moved to Tennessee to begin her career in civil service. Inspired by a colleague, Kristi went back to school to pursue a bachelor's degree in Nursing, which led her to work with heart patients in the cardiovascular unit in Baptist Hospital. After a recommendation from a grateful patient, she was introduced to pediatric medicine in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where she discovered her passion for working with children. 

Kristi continued her medical education by earning her master’s degree in Pediatric Nursing in 2017. Since passing the pediatric board exam in 2018, Kristi has dedicated herself to providing exceptional pediatric care as a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. 

Kristi’s clinical approach centers on personalized care: “Every child I care for is unique, and I take pride in providing personalized care based on their specific needs and circumstances.” 

Outside of work, Kristi loves spending time with her husband, Jason, and their dog, Champ. 

If you’re looking for compassionate, experienced pediatric care, schedule an appointment with Kristi Rutherford, CPNP, today!

Care to Share?

A Request for Patients to Share Their KCP Experience

We love hearing from our families! Your stories help us celebrate the care we provide and find ways to improve.

How to Share:

• Fill out our quick feedback form here.

Your experience may inspire other parents and could be featured (with your permission) on our website or in future newsletters. Thank you for being part of our Kids Central Pediatrics community!

Cold Weather Safety:
Keeping Kids Warm and Safe

With chilly days ahead, it’s important to keep kids warm and safe.

Here are a few tips:

• Dress in Layers: Ensure your child wears a warm base layer, insulating clothes, and a waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget hats, gloves, and scarves to protect extremities.

• Limit Outdoor Exposure: On extremely cold days, keep outdoor activities short and ensure frequent breaks to warm up inside.

• Recognize Signs of Hypothermia and Frostbite: Watch for shivering, numbness, or discolored skin, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

• Safe Heating Practices: Keep space heaters and fireplaces safely out of children’s reach. Use childproof guards where necessary.

• Prepare for Winter Travel: Always pack a winter emergency kit in the car, including blankets, snacks, and a first aid kit, in case of delays or breakdowns.

• Indoor Activities: Avoid cabin fever with creative indoor fun, like building forts, baking, or exploring new crafts and games.

Remember, our team is here to help with any cold-related illnesses or injuries. Stay safe this winter!

Back-to-School After Winter Break:
Resetting Routines

The new semester is here! Help your kids transition smoothly back to school with these tips:

• Sleep: Gradually reintroduce a consistent bedtime.

• Meals: Plan healthy lunches and snacks to keep energy levels up.

• Organization: Review school supplies and create a homework-friendly environment.

Need extra support? Schedule an appointment for ADHD assessments, school physicals, or any mid-year health checkups.

Here’s to a happy and healthy start to 2025! If you need us, we’re just a call or click away. Thank you for trusting Kids Central Pediatrics with your family’s care!