What to Expect On Your Newborn’s First Pediatric Visit

Bringing home your baby can be an exciting and nervous time in your life. At Health Services of North Texas and Wylie Children's Medical Clinic, our goal is to offer newborn care in the easiest and most efficient way possible. During your child's first pediatric visit, our team will take extra care and assess the overall wellness of your newborn. With offices conveniently located in Denton, Plano, and Wylie, TX, you can schedule a consultation at Health Services of North Texas today to learn more about our robust Pediatric Program and compassionate pediatric providers.

What is assessed at the first visit?

It is recommended that your child's first newborn visit is between 3 – 5 days after birth. There are many markers that help to gauge the health of a newborn, and our expert team thoroughly checks on each of them insuring your newborn is within range, including:

• Weight

• Length

• Temperature/vital signs

• Newborn illness (Rashes, jaundice, etc.)

• Overall Wellness

At your visit, you can also discuss any concerns, like feeding issues, bowel movements, etc. We strive to build healthy relationships, so we can provide your child with robust care to help in their development. Our providers in Denton, Wylie, and Plano, TX can offer many useful suggestions to help your baby thrive and grow and for you to feel confident as you bring your newborn home.

What do I do if I have questions or concerns?

Our providers are here to answer any questions and concerns you may have about your newborn. HSNT has a pediatric provider on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week if you have a health question and need medical advice for your newborn. In addition to the on call pediatric provider, we have compiled a Newborn Guide for parents on our website. It answers many frequently asked questions on the health and wellness of your child. If your newborn is experiencing a medical emergency, seek help immediately. Call Health Services of North Texas to see if our team is right for you and your child.

Steps of a newborn visit

The first step of the exam is to take the baby's measurements. A newborn's weight is taken on an infant scale. Length is obtained by placing the baby on a flat surface and stretching out his or her legs. A head circumference will also be measured. Measurements help to show the growth of your baby over time. The next step is a full-body exam. The exam goes from head to toe and can include:

• Head

• Ears

• Eyes

• Mouth

• Skin

• Heart/lungs

• Abdomen

• Legs

• Genital areas

All of these areas can help show our providers the overall health of your child. You might be asked to talk about a normal day for your baby. For example: How many hours do they sleep and feed? How active is your child? What is his or her temperament? You might also get counseled on safety issues, like best sleeping positions and normal temperatures. If you have questions, do not be afraid to ask. You may also schedule future well child exams before you leave.

Where to get a newborn checkup in North TX

Your child's first newborn visit can be scary, but it does not have to be. Going to the right Pediatric Provider is important, especially when it comes to your baby. HSNT's pediatric providers are here to answer any questions you might have and partner with you as you begin your parenting journey. Health Services of North Texas has three locations within a nine-mile radius in Denton, TX. Our other locations are in Wylie and Plano. Our team is dedicated to providing your child with the best possible care in North Texas. Contact Health Services of North Texas to schedule your newborn’s first appointment today.