What condition must your child be in to take them to the doctor?
My son has been really healthy so far, he did get a stomach virus a few weeks ago, which was his first time being sick. He threw up 4-5 times in two days and had a temp of 100-102.5 for 2-3 days that came down with meds. Though he was lethargic and didn't have much of an appetite, I really never thought I needed to call his doctor.
I was just curious as to what "guidelines" you have when you have a sick child regarding contacting their pediatrician?
You sound like a very reasonable person.
I used to work in an ER and some people would come in for absolutely nothing (seriously, some teenager came in because she got bumped by somebody earlier that day--no bruise or anything)--of course they were extremely angry when we asked for their $2 copay (yes, that is two).
You will know when your baby needs to be seen. You sound like you're doing a great job 
)