BABY’S FIRST AND LATER VISITS TO DOCTOR

First visit

A baby’s first visit to the doctor’s office is usually between two and four weeks after birth and this visit serves several purposes. For one thing, it gives the parent, the doctor, and the child an opportunity to meet together and begin a relationship. The parent can get to know the doctor and the customs of the practice, the doctor can get basic information about the family, and the child’s general health can be evaluated. At this first visit the doctor will take the baby’s physical measurements. This initial information is necessary so that the child’s development can be followed from the beginning of life. The doctor will also examine the baby for abnormalities. Some babies are born with physical problems and abnormalities that are obvious right away. Other inborn problems do not show up until a few weeks after birth.

At the first visit, the doctor will ask questions about the parents’ health and health history as well as examine the baby. Some medical problems can be inherited, and some can run in families. It is important for the new baby’s medical record to show such background information. If the child later shows signs of problems that have appeared before in the family, the doctor will be able to make a diagnosis more quickly.

The first visit will also include checking to see that the umbilical cord is healing as it should, that the circumcision (if it was done) is healing, and that the child has had no ill effects from labor and delivery. Feeding schedules, vitamins, and immunizations will be discussed as well. Usually a schedule of regular return visits is made up at the first visit. The number and spacing of the visits will depend on the baby’s health, the parents’ needs and wishes, and when the baby should have immunizations.

If the baby’s health and development seem to be normal, some or all of the later visits may be handled by a pediatric nurse practitioner, a physician’s assistant, or another health professional. These people are specially trained to be an extension of the doctor. They can work with you to clear up any questions you have about taking care of your baby. Of course, any question or problem that the nurse or assistant cannot handle is referred to the doctor.

Later visits

As the child grows past babyhood, questions will come up about how to handle toilet training, rivalries with brothers and sisters, obedience, temper tantrums, and the like. These are areas where your doctor and the staff can help. Go ahead and ask about them. A child’s doctor is not concerned only with the child’s physical body. Social and psychological development is also a part of every child’s growth and affects health in many ways.

*266/84/5*