The first visit to the pediatrician after your baby arrives is an exciting milestone! It’s often the first chance you’ll have to meet our providers and see the office. Here’s what you can expect during this important visit.
Completing Paperwork:
Ensure you are fully prepared to complete the essential paperwork for your child’s care. This includes vital insurance documentation, your contact information, and a copy of your insurance card and driver’s license.
To streamline your experience, we encourage you to complete the necessary paperwork before your baby’s first appointment. By clicking the links below, you can easily download the forms to fill out at your convenience. Bringing these completed forms with you will help ensure a smooth and efficient appointment.
Undressing the Baby:
The doctor will need to examine the baby thoroughly, so consider bringing a blanket in case the examination room is chilly.
Taking Measurements:
The staff will measure the baby’s length, weight, and head circumference. These measurements are crucial, as they are plotted on a growth chart to ensure the child is developing at the expected rate.
Meeting the Doctor:
When the pediatrician arrives, it’s a good opportunity for parents to ask any questions they may have. It’s helpful to jot down questions on your phone ahead of time.
Review Feeds:
The doctor will inquire whether the baby is breastfed or bottle-fed, how many ounces they typically consume, and whether the baby wakes up on their own for feedings. After discussing feeding, the pediatrician will ask about the baby’s urine and stool output.
Physical Examination:
The doctor will conduct a thorough head-to-toe examination of the baby. This ensures that nothing was overlooked during the initial hospital exam and allows the doctor to check for any new issues or concerns, such as weight loss or jaundice, which can occur shortly after birth.
Reviewing Safety Measures:
The pediatrician will discuss important safety information, including car seat safety, checking the hot water temperature for the baby, and ensuring smoke detectors are working in the home. They will also address sleep safety, advising that babies should sleep on their backs without any additional items in the bed.
Scheduling the Next Visit:
At the end of the appointment, the pediatrician will schedule the next visit, typically two weeks to a month later. If any concerns arise during this visit, the physician may recommend an earlier follow-up appointment