tips for protecting your good health

How Can a Pediatric Doctor Help Your Child?

3 March 2022 by Sasha Meyer

Medical care is important at every age. Kids, in particular, have unique needs due to their growing bodies. Pediatricians can provide the specialized care that children need. Here are some things that a pediatric doctor can do for your child:

1. Immunize your child.

Immunization can protect children from diseases that can compromise their well-being and even threaten their lives. Many schools even require proof of immunization before children can enroll. Pediatricians can provide kids with all the vaccines they need, from tetanus shots to chickenpox vaccines. Your child's doctor can keep a record of their immunizations, so they never miss an important booster shot. 

2. Provide nutritional counseling.

Children's growing bodies require adequate nutrition in order to support the development of their bones, muscles, and brains. Pediatricians can provide nutritional counseling for parents and kids. Your child's doctor can help you figure out how to feed your baby, infant, or toddler. As kids get older, doctors can speak to them directly about making smart choices that can fuel their bodies and protect their health. Including kids in conversations about their health can help them feel empowered to care for themselves, a skill that will become increasingly important as they age. 

3. Treat illnesses.

Unfortunately, sometimes children get sick. A case of sniffles is usually nothing to be concerned about, but a high fever or an illness that doesn't resolve within a few days may require medical treatment. Pediatricians can diagnose common illnesses and provide treatment when necessary. Antibiotics are sometimes needed to resolve bacterial infections, such as sinus infections and ear infections. If you believe your child may be infected with Covid-19, you should call their doctor's office before bringing your child in for an appointment. Pediatricians may have additional safety protocols for patients coming in with suspected cases of Covid-19. 

4. Determine your child's blood type.

Every person has a unique blood type. Knowing your blood type can be of great benefit. In the event of an accident that requires a blood transfusion, knowing your child's blood type and help them get life-saving treatment without delays. Your child's doctor can determine their blood type with a quick and relatively painless procedure. A doctor or nurse will prick your child's finger and squeeze out a small droplet of blood, which will be collected and tested. Your child's blood type will be determined and noted in their records for future reference.

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