What can I expect at a pediatric appointment?

Your expectations for a pediatric appointment will depend on the nature of the office visit.  If your child is feeling well and the visit is routine, you can expect to have vital signs taken, height and weight recorded, and the vaccination record reviewed.  Your child should receive a routine physical exam.  The pediatrician will likely speak with you about developmental milestones and growth issues that are routine for the child’s age.  He or she will likely ask you questions about how your child is functioning at home and at school, both socially and academically.  Healthy lifestyle practices should be discussed, including dietary intake, sleep habits, and hygiene practices.  The physician will give you advice on what to expect of your child as he or she grows over the next year.  This is also an opportunity to discuss any concerns you have about your child’s well-being or receive answers to issues you are noticing with your child’s development.

If your child is ill and the appointment is scheduled as a sick visit, you can expect your child’s vital signs, including temperature, to be taken and height and weight to be recorded.  You will be asked questions about the nature of your child’s illness, including what symptoms you are noting, and when the problem started.  The doctor will examine your child and may prescribe medication or order further testing as appropriate for the condition.