What is a well-child appointment?
A well-child appointment involves a comprehensive physical examination for younger children. During this check-up, your doctor will assess your child’s growth, and development, and address any health inquiries you might have. Discussions with your physician could cover topics like sleep, safety, illnesses, and the expectations for your child’s growth.
The primary goal of a well-child appointment is to ensure your child is up-to-date with vaccinations and to monitor their growth and development. It’s also an opportunity to establish a trusting rapport with the pediatrician and seek answers to your child’s health-related queries.
Physical assessment
In the course of the physical assessment, your child’s doctor will measure weight and height, making comparisons with other children of the same age to determine if your child’s growth is on track. Necessary vaccines will be administered, and your child’s overall health will be evaluated.
The pediatrician will examine:
- Body temperature
- Heart and lungs
- Abdominal area and other organs
- Ears, nose, and throat
- Reflexes
- Vision and hearing
- Signs of jaundice in infants
Once your child is born and you’ve chosen a pediatrician, your doctor will advise on the recommended frequency of well-child appointments.