What to ask at my first well-child visit?
Your first well-child visit will be carried out soon after birth to ensure baby’s development is on track. Read our list of questions on everything from your baby weight check to baby vaccinations, so you can be prepared when you see your healthcare provider.
- Schedule your first appointment with your doctor soon after your baby is born. It should happen within the first week of going home from the hospital.
- The doctor or nurse will weigh your baby and measure their length and head circumference. Ask if baby’s weight check is within the normal range.
- Ask what baby vaccinations are needed and when. Your doctor may have a copy of your provinces vaccination schedule for you to take home.
- Ask if your baby’s sleeping patterns are as expected. Share how your family is adjusting to having a new baby at home.
- Ask about safe sleeping and about reducing the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
- Ask about breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, and where you can get support if you have any concerns.
- Many or all of the newborn screening tests will be done while you are still in the hospital. Check with your doctor that they were all completed.
- Ask how you can safely bathe your baby and how often. You can also read our checklist on how to bathe a newborn.
- Ask how you safely trim baby’s nails.
Sources
Canadian Paediatric Society. Schedule of well-child visits. https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/pregnancy-and-babies/schedule_of_well_child_visits Accessed September 2020.
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