New parents: Are you feeling overwhelmed with responsibilities, and you are stressed about your newborn’s first appointment?
The pediatric specialists at Central Nebraska Children & Adolescent Clinic want to ease your fears and help you navigate the world of having a new baby.
And we want you to enjoy, as much as possible, these early days in the life of your child. Here is a rundown of what to expect at your first appointment.
Once you arrive in our office, you can check in at the desk. You may be asked to fill out some forms with information about you and your new family so be sure to arrive in plenty of time for the appointment. You can find a spot in our waiting area to fill out the forms while chatting with baby or watching baby sleep. Please take your time and make sure we have accurate contact and insurance information.
During your first visit, we will:
- Check your baby’s weight, length and head circumference. We will plot these measurements on a growth chart so we can keep track of how your baby is doing as he or she grows.
- Ask you to take off the baby’s clothes. Your provider will examine the baby, including listening to the baby’s heart, inspecting the umbilical cord and checking the hips.
- Review the screening tests done at the hospital.
- Schedule vaccinations for childhood illnesses.
- Discuss feedings, the number of wet or soiled diapers per day and sleeping.
- Answer your questions. Please make sure to write down questions ahead of time so you remember what you want to ask.
Most of all, this first appointment is a good time to get to know your provider and for the provider to get to know you and your infant.
We are excited that you are choosing Central Nebraska Children & Adolescent Clinic for your care, and hope to serve your needs from now throughout your child’s growing years.
