What Are Some Important Things that a Pediatrician Does?

You know that a pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in managing the physical, behavioral, and mental health of children from birth until age 18. What you may not know is just how wide-ranging the services provided by a pediatrician are, and how important they are to the well-being of your child.

While a pediatrician diagnoses, treats, and prevents childhood illnesses and injuries – from minor health problems to serious diseases – there is more to a pediatrician’s responsibilities than meets the eye. Let’s talk about some of the basic and not-so-basic things a pediatrician is trained to do for you and your child, and where you can go in Wayne County for outstanding pediatric care.

Providing Comprehensive Care for Your Child

Your relationship with your child’s pediatrician starts right after delivery. In fact, your baby’s first physical exam may be conducted by a hospital pediatrician or one of your own choosing.

Your pediatrician of choice will then have or be given the records from your baby’s stay in the hospital. After you are discharged from the hospital, your pediatrician will see your baby over the next 48 to 72 hours, then regularly until the age of 2 for well-child visits, and annually starting at the age of 5. If your child has any underlying health conditions, the doctor may ask to see your child more often.

Whenever your child is sick, your pediatrician is the first person you should call. Specifically, your child’s pediatrician will:

• Conduct physical exams
• Administer recommended immunizations
• Monitor your child’s developmental growth, behavior, and skills
• Diagnose and treat your child’s illnesses, infections, injuries, or other health issues
• Provide you with information about your child’s health, safety, fitness, and nutritional needs
• Answer your questions concerning your child’s growth and development
• Refer you to and collaborate with a specialist if your child requires additional care or treatment

Monitoring Chronic or Potential Health Conditions in Your Child

Not only do pediatricians treat children who sustain minor injuries, but they also treat those who are suffering from acute or chronic health problems. They order or perform diagnostic tests to obtain information about your child’s medical condition so they can administer appropriate treatments, therapies, medications, and vaccinations.

Common health conditions that are often treated by pediatricians include:

• Respiratory ailments (asthma, common cold, flu, strep throat, etc.)
• Stomach viruses and digestive issues
• Cardiac abnormalities
• Minor concussions sustained as a result of play or sports
• Minor injuries (sprains, strains, small fractures, etc.)

Addressing a Child’s Psychological and Emotional Development

In addition to meeting the physical healthcare needs of your child, pediatricians also focus on the mental and emotional needs of the child – addressing any physiological and psychological growth and developmental concerns you may have. They counsel and guide children and their parents or guardians in areas ranging from diet and hygiene to disease prevention.

Pediatricians in Wayne County, Ohio

The board-certified pediatricians at Wooster Community Hospital are among the best in Wayne County. Our medical team is here to not only serve your child’s healthcare needs, but those of your whole family as well.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with one of our dedicated pediatricians, call us today at (330) 263-8144 or fill out our appointment request form online. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you and your family!