Tips for Baby's First Doctor Visit
Tips to Get the Most out of Baby’s First Pediatrician Appointment
Oct 22, 2007
Having a baby can be overwhelming at times, and the first visit to the pediatrician’s office is no exception. With all of the questions new parents have and the mountains of information they are faced with, even the simplest decisions can be a challenge. Add to that the effects of sleep deprivation and it’s easy feel like you’re in over your head. Get the most out of your baby’s first pediatrician appointment with these tips.
Leave the House Early
Just because your appointment is in a half hour and you live five minutes away doesn’t mean you have plenty of time to get there. Babies can make anyone take longer to get out of the house. Be sure to arrange for ample time to leave the house, and to make any pit stops you might need along the way to change diapers, feed, or just check on baby as well.
Don’t Dress up
This goes for both you and your baby. If you have to go straight from the office and have no time to change, fine, but otherwise you should wear comfortable, everyday clothes. Don’t bother dressing your baby in his or her finest either – most likely the only ones to see his or her snazzy ensemble are the receptionist and anyone who might be in the waiting room. Once you enter the examining room, the nurse will ask you to undress the baby and he or she will most likely be in nothing but a diaper for the duration of the appointment.
Arrive Early
You will most likely need to fill out paperwork before the appointment begins, so make sure to leave plenty of time for it. You might also want to bring written copies or notes on the health histories of both you the baby's other parent.
Be Prepared
Bring a list of questions you want to ask or topics or concerns you want to discuss. Don’t be shy – they’ve probably heard it all before.
Bring Examples
If you’re not sure about what something is for or how to use it, if it's feasible, bring it with you. If you aren’t completely comfortable with using a bulb nose aspirator, for example, bring it with you to that first pediatrician appointment and ask the doctor to demonstrate using it on your baby’s nose. Then, when you need it, you’ll know how to do it. Or, take a picture and bring that with you to ask the doctor about.
Ask Questions
That’s what you’re there for – and your baby's pediatrician is the expert. Don’t be afraid to ask – remember that the only “stupid” question is the one that isn’t asked.
Listen
Make sure to pay attention. Take notes or, if you’re not a note taker, bring a small tape recorder. This way, you can go back over the appointment and re-check anything you weren’t sure about. Or if your partner wasn't able to attend the appointment, he or she can be get up to speed on what was covered.
Being a new parent is difficult, and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the new responsibility. Follow these tips to help get the most out of your baby’s first pediatrician appointment.
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