Pediatricians are medical doctors who specialize in caring for babies, adolescents, and children. They provide medical care for babies, toddlers, children, and teenagers. Pediatricians treat infants, children, and teenagers from birth to age 18. San Pedro pediatrics also involves treating children with illnesses that affect growth or development, such as cancer and diabetes.
Pediatricians perform a variety of procedures, from well-baby visits to complex surgeries. Pediatricians are also involved in diagnosing and treating common childhood diseases such as asthma, diabetes, cancer, and more.
Here is a list of some pediatric services:
Provision of immunizations and vaccinations
Pediatricians provide immunizations and vaccinations, including flu shots and other shots that protect against polio, measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. Pediatricians also perform blood tests to check your child’s immunity to certain diseases and ensure he or she does not have an allergy to penicillin or other medicines.
Physical exams
The doctor will check your child’s growth rate and weight. They will also measure your child’s height, check their temperature, and listen to their breath and heartbeat. The pediatrician also examines your baby’s eyesight by looking into both eyes separately with one eye closed and then with both eyes open at different times while standing up straight against a wall (called an eye exam). You may also have your child undergo a complete physical examination where the doctor checks all parts of his body, including his head, to ensure there are no problems that need immediate attention, such as an ear infection or head injury. Physical exams help find problems before they become severe, like infections or injuries that can lead to serious illness or death.
Childbirth preparation
For many pregnant women, this visit is their first with their pediatrician. Childbirth preparation includes an assessment for gestational age and risk factors for pregnancy complications such as high blood pressure or diabetes. It may consist of ultrasound to check the baby’s growth and listen to the baby’s heartbeat. The doctor may also want to discuss what to expect during labor and delivery.
Providing well-baby visits
The pediatrician’s role at a well-baby visit is to assess your baby’s growth and development, physical health, cognitive development (such as learning skills), hearing and vision problems, or other concerns that may need attention before birth or within the first year of life. You can also ask about possible causes for any problems your baby experiences during this time.
Screening for developmental delays
Screening for developmental delays is a crucial part of the pediatrician’s role. They will be able to detect any developmental delays early and refer your child to a specific specialist if necessary. The service is essential because it gives you time to seek help before your child becomes more difficult to manage.
Growth monitoring
Growth charts monitor growth regularly and give information about your child’s growth rate and patterns over time. Some pediatricians will use growth charts and other information such as height/weight measurements or bone age to assess growth in children whose orthopedic specialist or dentist has not yet evaluated for suspected growth problems.
When it comes to your child, it is essential to know what to do and when. Whether you’re a new parent or a long-time parent, there are some things you should keep in mind when contacting a pediatrician. If you suspect your child has a medical concern, contact Harbor Community Health Centers to make an appointment with a pediatrician immediately.
