Every parent or guardian should be on the lookout for when their child's first physical exam should take place. While it might seem like common knowledge, many parents think this part of a child's life can be put off or skipped in certain cases. Much of the problem can come from a lack of understanding about the importance of these exams and how they inspect every part of a child's life. It's also a key part of Los Angeles IV therapy in people of all ages.
Physical exams are crucial for kids; their pediatrician wants to keep up with how they are progressing. From birth until age two, a checkup is usually done every six months. After a child turns two they will need to go for a checkup every year. By following this schedule they can be monitored closely for any issues that might come up. If the child is frightened about the exam, it is best to go over what will happen while they are at the pediatrician's office.
What Happens During A Child's Exam?
For a first time visit, the parent will be asked for a family medical history as well as information about any health conditions; at this time the parent can tell the pediatrician about any thoughts or concerns. If the child is a long time patient then the pediatrician will take time to go over the medical records. Next, a nurse will take the child’s weight, height, vitals, like blood pressure, and temperature. A hearing and eye exam will allow the pediatrician to check for any problems the child may be having in these areas.
Observation Is Key
The pediatrician will observe the child as they look for anything abnormal or an indication of a possible problem. If anything is found, further tests could reveal any dangers. Test results in many cases take a longer period of time than any visit and parents could wait days, if not weeks, for full results. Reflexes are checked and the pediatrician uses a stethoscope to help examine the heart, lungs, and abdomen. They listen to the heartbeat, breath sounds, and the bowels. Also, they will gently press on the abdomen to check for pains.
Are Medical Records Important?
Medical records are filled in from the exam and checked to see if there are vaccinations that are needed at the time especially if the child is school age. The records may be copied and shared with selected school officials or those involved with extracurricular activities that require medical assessments. Updated records also give doctors a better picture of the child's health and lead to better diagnostic options over time.
The pediatrician will discuss any findings from the exam and there may also be a discussion concerning the child's diet and weight, sleeping habits, and exercise routine. A pediatrician can make recommendations if needed for these parts of the child's life; they will go into the emotional or behavioral health issues that have been observed or discussed by the parents. A plan of action for any of these can be formed at this point. Also, if anything has been found the pediatrician will refer the child to a specialist for further treatment.
