Pediatric & Adolescent Care

Well Child Care

A well child examination, also known as a routine physical or medical check-up, is recommended for children of all ages. It is an opportunity to ask questions and express concerns about a child's development and health.

Questions a parent may want to ask the doctor during a well visit may include some of the following:

  • Toilet training methods
  • Eating
  • Sleep patterns
  • Socialization issues
  • Learning problems
  • Family problems
  • Concerns about puberty
  • Behavioral issues

By sharing concerns with the pediatrician and working to resolve any problems a parent may have, helps to establish a trusting relationship that will continue for a long time.

Preparing for the Visit

In order to get the information from the pediatrician, some of the following suggestions may be helpful:

  • Write down questions
  • Read books and pamphlets about issues the child may have
  • Research medical websites
  • Get a list of caregiver's concerns

During the Visit

During a routine physical, the doctor will perform a complete physical examination to monitor growth and development as well as detect any changes or abnormalities. Immunizations may be administered as well.

Some of the following may be conducted:

  • An assessment of the child's growth and development
  • Physical examination
  • Immunization update
  • Blood test
  • Temperature
  • Blood pressure
  • Pulse
  • Respiration rate

A schedule for routine well-care visits will be provided based on the child's age and condition.

School Physicals

Every student should have an annual physical examination before going back to school to begin the new term. In many states, this medical examination is mandated by law and most schools require that a medical form be filled out before the child is permitted to attend classes. This checkup is necessary for the child's health and well-being and for the health of everyone else in the school environment. A typical physical examination includes the taking of a medical history, an observation and evaluation of posture, stature, mobility, joints and organs, as well as tests for vision and hearing. In many elementary schools, a school physician is available to perform medical examinations, but most students are examined by their private physicians.

In most cases, a dental examination will also be necessary and will be performed by a dentist at another time.

Reasons for a School Physical

There are many good reasons for a student to have a medical examination prior to attending school. All involve protecting individual children and their classmates. The doctor determines whether the student:

  • Has a contagious condition
  • Has a weight problem
  • Is growing at a normal rate
  • Needs glasses, a hearing aid, or other devices
  • Requires further diagnostic testing
  • Is up to date on immunizations
  • Needs special classroom accommodations
  • Requires medications during the school day

By performing a school physical, the doctor is able to evaluate the general health of the child or adolescent and to determine whether any further medical consultation is necessary.

Medical History

Taking a medical history is part of any thorough physical examination. The doctor will ask questions designed to protect the student from possible dangers during an average school day or during participation in sports or other exercise. The physician will make a note of any:

  • Congenital defects
  • Chronic disease conditions
  • Chest pain or shortness of breath
  • History of seizures
  • Previous surgical procedures
  • Prescription medications
  • Allergies
  • Previous injuries
  • Family history of medical problems

When the student is an adolescent, this portion of the school physical may also provide an opportunity to discuss matters of possible concern, such as smoking, drinking, drug use, sexual activity or depression.

The School Physical Procedure

During the course of the school physical, the doctor:

  • Records height and weight
  • Checks pulse and blood pressure
  • Evaluates posture, mobility, muscle strength
  • Checks heart, lung and bowel function
  • Examines ears, nose and throat
  • Administers vision and hearing tests

Depending on the state, the particular school, and the age of the student, other screenings may be performed, such as for lead or tuberculosis. If any immunizations are necessary, they may be administered during the school physical.

Sports Physicals

A sports physical exam, also known as a preparticipation physical examination (PPE), is a thorough medical examination that determines whether or not it is safe for an athlete to participate in a particular sport. The purpose of a PPE is to prevent as many injuries and medical emergencies on the court or playing field as possible Sports physicals are often required for children and teens before they are allowed to join a team sport and are usually repeated before each season. PPEs are required by most state governments as well.

It is recommended that participants undergo sport physicals at least 6 weeks before the activity begins so there will be ample time if precautions or preparations are necessary.

Medical History

The first part of a sports physical involves the taking of a medical history. This is extremely important in terms of protecting the participant from possible danger during strenuous activity. The medical history includes information concerning:

  • Illnesses of family members
  • Chronic past disease conditions of the participant
  • Present health conditions
  • Prior hospitalizations or surgeries
  • Allergies, especially severe ones
  • Past musculoskeletal injuries or concussions
  • History of chest pain, breathing difficulties
  • History of dizziness or fainting
  • Medications (prescribed, OTC or supplemental)

This oral history is extremely important because awareness of possible underlying conditions, such as asthma or diabetes, may result in the physician prescribing particular treatments or recommending certain precautions, prior to exercise. It may also result in the physician prescribing medications for use if symptoms occur during exercise. In rare instances, the medical examination will make clear that participation in a particular sport is not recommended because of serious health risks.

Physical Examination

This examination is designed to detect any irregularities in the student's physical condition that may be warning signs of a medical disorder. By checking vital signs and evaluating general health, the doctor can be confident in approving sports participation. During a sports physical, the doctor checks and records:

  • Height and weight
  • Pulse and blood pressure
  • Visual acuity and eye health
  • Ear, nose and throat condition
  • Heart, lungs and and bowel function
  • Posture, muscular strength, flexibility

During some physical examinations, an electrocardiogram (EKG) may be administered to further evaluate heart function or other diagnostic tests may be recommended.

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