How to Give Your Newborn the Very Best Start in Life

Expectant parents often wonder if their baby will be a boy or a girl. Regardless, they hope that it will be healthy. Once that baby has been born, the focus shifts to providing the best possible care. At the office of Kiddies' Pal Pediatrics, our team of specialists will work with you to ensure your newborn is healthy, happy and reaching its developmental milestones.

Most important in that development is newborn screening (NBS), a simple blood test that looks for developmental, genetic, and metabolic disorders in newborns. The test is peformed on babies as young as one day to seven days of age. A few drops of blood are collected from the baby’s heel, blotted onto specialized filter paper, and sent to a lab for analysis. Early screening, diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious illness.

Typically, your infant will have its first doctor's office exam within three to five days after birth that includes:

• a measure of weight, length, and head circumference
• tests of your newborn's vision, hearing and reflexes
• a complete physical exam
• a check of the baby’s eating and sleeping habits at home
• nursing techniques and issues
• a discussion of what to expect in the coming weeks
• a discussion on your home environment and how it could affect your baby

We can also discuss with you the results of the screening tests done right after birth. Jot down any instructions about special baby care, and bring up your questions or concerns. Keep a medical record for your baby that includes information about growth, immunizations, medicines, and any problems or illnesses.

Regular medical visits at our office, parental vigilance and proper at-home care will ensure your newborn gets the very best start in life.  

At the office of Kiddies' Pal Pediatrics, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality of skilled and compassionate care for your baby. For more information on our office and the many services that we provide, give us a call today.