Before you have your baby, you’re sure to have his or her doctors picked out well in advance. You’ve probably done your research on newborn hospital care in Summerville, SC, such as their office hours, how emergencies are handled and their views on issues such as co-sleeping and vaccinations, but did you know that your baby needs more than one exam shortly after birth? Not sure what they’ll be looking for? Here’s what you should be watching for immediately after birth and at your child’s first pediatric exam.
Steps Taken Immediately After Birth
Right after birth, doctors will check your baby’s skin tone and movement. They’ll also take notice of your child’s breathing, heart rate, and temperature as well as taking his or her length, weight, and head size. Ointment or drops will be placed in your baby’s eyes to ward off infections, and vitamin K will be injected to prevent bleeding. In addition, you can expect your baby to receive a bath and an umbilical stump cleaning. Feel free to ask questions about home care. Your doctor may even have pamphlets or how-to videos available for you to take.
Steps Taken at the First Doctor’s Visit
Babies should be seen more than once shortly after they’re born. You can expect an exam by newborn hospital care in Summerville, SC, within 3 to 5 days after birth and then again within 72 hours after they arrive home. Doctors will take blood to screen for diseases and keep track of how your child is growing. They’ll also assess your newborn’s home environment and give you advice on how to keep them healthy, as well as evaluate their hearing, sight, and natural reflexes. You can expect a full physical exam at this time.
You should be aware of the exam process taken with your baby by newborn hospital care in Summerville, SC, both immediately after birth and at the child’s first office visit. While your doctor is unlikely to miss any steps, you can feel more at ease knowing they’ve covered the needed measures and make it a time to ask questions about caring for your infant at home. Visit the website www.charlestonpalmettopediatrics.com for more information.
