Well Child Visits
What to expect during a pediatric well child visit
A well child visit with a pediatrician is an important opportunity to ensure that your child is on track developmentally and physically. Here’s what you can expect during a typical well child visit. First, the pediatrician will review your child’s medical history and current health. This will include questions about any concerns you have, as well as a discussion of your child’s diet, sleep habits, and bathroom routines.
Next, the pediatrician will complete a physical examination. This will involve checking your child’s height, weight, head circumference, and blood pressure. The doctor will also listen to your child’s heart and lungs, and check their abdomen, extremities, and skin for any abnormalities.
Finally, the pediatrician will provide you with information about your child’s development and offer guidance on parenting topics such as nutrition, sleep, behavior, and safety. They may also recommend developmental screenings or vaccinations at this time. Well child visits are an important part of keeping your child healthy – be sure to schedule them as recommended by your pediatrician.
Immunizations and screenings your child needs
As a parent, it is important to make sure your child is up-to-date on all their immunizations and screenings. Vaccinations protect your child from serious diseases, some of which can be deadly. Starting at 2 months old, babies should receive vaccinations for Hepatitis B, Rotavirus, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTaP), Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib), Pneumococcus, and Inactivated Poliovirus (IPV). At 4 months old, they may also get their first flu vaccine. Babies 6 months and older should receive additional doses of DTaP, Hib, IPV, flu vaccine, Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR), Varicella (chickenpox), and Hepatitis A.
Children between the ages 4 and 6 years old should also be screened for lead poisoning. If your child has asthma or other risk factors, they may need to get the pneumonia vaccine. Lastly, all kids between 11-12 years old should get vaccinated for HPV to help protect against certain types of cancer later in life. 11 year olds also receive the Meningococcal vaccine and the Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (TdaP) booster. By getting your child the proper immunizations and screenings, you can help ensure they stay healthy and catch any potential illnesses early on.
Tips for preparing your child for their well child visit
A well child visit is an opportunity for your child’s healthcare provider to assess their physical and developmental health. It’s also a chance for you to ask questions and voice any concerns you may have about your child’s health. Prepararing for a well child visit can help to make the process smooth and stress-free. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Schedule the appointment for a time when your child is rested and well-fed. A cranky or hungry child is more likely to be uncooperative during the exam.
Dress your child in comfortable clothing that is easy to remove. This will make it easier for the provider to perform the physical exam.
Bring along any records or forms that the provider has requested, such as immunization records or growth charts.
Make a list of questions or concerns that you want to discuss with the provider. This will help to ensure that you don’t forget anything during the visit.
By following these simple tips, you can help to make sure that your child’s well child visit is a success.
Common questions parents have about pediatric well child visits
For parents of young children, well child visits can be both exciting and anxiety-provoking. On the one hand, it’s a chance to see how your child is growing and development. On the other hand, you may have questions about your child’s health or development that you’re not sure whether to bring up. Here are a few of the most common questions that parents have about pediatric well child visits:
When should my child see a doctor?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants and toddlers have well child visits at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24, and 30 months. At age 3 years, your child should see a doctor at least once a year for a well child visit. However, if your child is sick or has been injured, you should bring them in for a visit as soon as possible.
What will the doctor do during the visit?
The doctor will measure your child’s height, weight, and head circumference. They will also assess your child’s developmental milestones and check their vision (age 1 year and older) and hearing (age 4 years and older). Blood pressure measurements start at age 3 years.
What should I bring to the visit?
You should bring a list of any medications or supplements that your child is taking, as well as any medical records from previous visits. It can also be helpful to write down any questions or concerns that you have in advance. If you are a new patient, especially if you have moved from out of state, please bring a current copy of your child’s immunizations.
What if my child is sick or injured?
If your child is sick or injured, you should bring them in for a visit as soon as possible. The doctor will assess your child’s symptoms and determine whether they need to be seen by a specialist or hospitalized.
Pediatric well child visits are an important part of your child’s overall health throughout life. Immunizations and screenings can help protect your child from disease and illness, while preparing them for future checkups. By understanding what to expect during a pediatric well child visit, you can help make the experience less stressful for both you and your child. Have any other questions about pediatric well child visits? Feel free to contact us at 404-252-4611.
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