Questions Parents Should Ask Pediatricians but Might Forget
The next time you step into the pediatrician’s office, don’t forget to pull out this checklist. You may have already asked your child’s pediatrician about feeding schedules, vaccines, sleep troubles, and food allergies. Perhaps your child is experiencing constipation, cries when put in the crib, or has a fever. While these are common concerns for new parents, we’ve got more news for you. There are additional questions you need to ask your child’s pediatrician.
Safe Sleep Practices
Sleep, understandably, is one of the most concerning issues for new parents. Not only are parents exhausted, but the baby is too. While many new parents focus on getting a little more sleep (or ideally, a lot more sleep), understanding and practicing safe sleep habits are equally crucial. Firstly, infants should always sleep on their backs. Their sleep space should be a “crib, bassinet, or portable play yard” with a “firm, flat mattress and fitted sheet.” Swings and car seats are not suitable for safe sleep spaces. The infant’s sleep area should be free of any “loose blankets, pillows, plush toys, bumpers, and other soft items.” Breastfeeding is recommended if possible, and parents should “avoid smoking.”
Water Safety
As summer approaches, you might be considering water activities with your child, whether it’s a sprinkler, a swimming pool, or a local splash pad. Bath time should not be overlooked either. However, any outdoor water activity can pose risks of overheating, dehydration, or sunburn for your baby. At this time, it’s crucial to consult your pediatrician for information on various aspects of water safety practices. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents that infants can drown in just one to two inches of water. Never leave your child alone or unattended in or near water. Before giving your baby a bath, keep all bath supplies within reach and check the water temperature to prevent scalding. Ensure the safety of the bathroom (think toilets—with just a bowl of water), swimming pool, and even large containers like pet bowls and coolers. While young infants may not be mobile, they become curious about water as they approach toddlerhood.
After-Hours Illness
Any experienced parent will tell you that children rarely get sick when it’s convenient for parents. Whether it’s a weekend, holiday, or late at night, parents need to be prepared. So, when should you call the pediatrician after hours? The threshold for calling varies among doctors, so be sure to ask the following questions: At what temperature should you be concerned (fever)? What other symptoms warrant a call, such as lethargy or vomiting? What fever and/or symptoms require us to go directly to urgent care or the emergency room? The bottom line is, when in doubt, make the call. For infants “under two months of age,” if they have a fever of “100.4 degrees Fahrenheit” or higher, take them to the emergency room. Situations that require a hospital visit include suspected fractures, a child hitting their head with signs of fainting or loss of consciousness, seizures, dehydration, rapid breathing, difficulty breathing, or “wheezing,” as well as any “open wounds.”
Growth and Development
One question all new parents should ask their pediatrician is, “Is my child developing and growing well?” She prewarns that parents shouldn’t “assume your child is doing well in these areas unless your doctor specifically mentions it.” As parents, you know your child best. These aspects might be “overlooked in a busy clinic,” so parents need to pay attention to their child’s growth (height, weight, and head circumference) and development. One of the best ways to do this is to bring a notebook and pen to every appointment, especially if your child’s doctor’s office doesn’t use a digital record system accessible online for patients.
Car Seat Safety
Car seat safety is one of the most confusing and incredible issues for new parents. What was once considered safe and acceptable before becoming parents may no longer be so. There are two questions to ask the pediatrician about car seats. Firstly, can I leave my child alone in the car seat? How long can it last? Remember, never, ever leave your child unattended in an unsupervised car. Do you know that there are four different types of car seats, from infant seats to simple booster seats? The NHTSA’s Car Seat Finder tool allows you to input your child’s birthday, height, and weight to help you choose the best car seat. They also remind parents that “every time your child is in the car, it’s crucial to choose and use the right car seat correctly” to ensure their safety.