Your first visit to the pediatrician is stressful, not only for you as the parent but for your child too. But trips to see the pediatrician are necessary to ensure your child’s healthy growth and development. And developing a good rapport with your child’s pediatrician will go a long way toward decreasing the stress level for you and your child.
What to expect during your child’s first physical exam?
Newborns need more well-child checkups than at any other age. Your child’s first physical exam should happen 3 to 5 days after birth.
A child’s physical examination will include a variety of observations and measurements. Your pediatrician will likely measure the following:
- Weight
- Height
- Head circumference
- Blood pressure
The pediatricians at Westchester Park Pediatrics will need your help with this examination. The pediatrician will ask if you have any specific concerns or any issues you have noticed.
Your pediatrician will start by discussing your pregnancy and any issues related to the child’s birth. Family history is also necessary for your pediatrician to be aware of any health issues that could be passed on to your child.
The physical exam will include observation, physical touches, such as looking in their ears and using the stethoscope to listen to your child’s heart and lungs.
During the observation phase, the pediatrician watches your child to see if there are any noticeable issues including sight and hearing. The pediatrician may also ask about your child’s feeding. If you are breastfeeding your child, assessing how your child is handling breastfeeding may be included.
The next part of the exam will include the pediatrician using a palpation technique to ensure your child is free of problems like jaundice or rashes. Your pediatrician will do an overall assessment including feet and hips. Your pediatrician will also document any birthmarks located on your child. And of course, your pediatrician will check your baby’s fontanel.
The final step will be listening to evaluate the heart and lungs of your child. This is necessary to be sure all systems are working at their optimum.
The first exam is complete, so now what?
Vaccines to help your child’s health and wellness are essential at this age. Infants are especially vulnerable until one year of age. Vaccinations usually occur at all visits after the period of 2 months.
If your child needs vaccines, your pediatrician usually gives the injection at the end of the visit. Your pediatrician will also discuss your child’s development according to the standards set forth by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
At Westchester Park Pediatrics, your child’s growth and development are of the utmost importance. Keeping your child healthy and happy is their number one concern. Call Westchester Park Pediatrics at (914)761-1717 to schedule your child’s first physical examination. Our website also allows you to schedule your appointment online. Call us today.
