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What to Expect During Your Child’s Physical Exam

Dec 02, 2022
What to Expect During Your Child’s Physical Exam
Physical exams are a key part in helping children grow up healthy and strong. Read on to learn what happens during these visits and how often you can expect to have your child examined.

In order to keep your child as healthy as possible, you need to take your child to regular physical exams. These exams can help make sure your child is reaching their milestones. Furthermore, these exams can help doctors spot issues early.

At Monarch Health Services, Inc. in West Palm Beach, Florida, Tiffany Jarrett, MD, and our team are equipped to care for all of your child’s medical needs, including physical exams. In this blog, Dr. Jarrett explains what happens at a physical exam, why they’re important, and how often you can expect to bring your child.

What happens at a physical exam?

During your child’s physical exam, their doctor will check their behavioral, physical, and mental health. These exams can help your child’s doctor detect, manage, and even prevent health problems.

Their doctor will begin by checking their vital signs, which are their blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and respiration rate. Their doctor will also record their height, weight, body mass index, and head circumference. Their doctor will then track these measurements to make sure things stay in the normal ranges. If something changes, they can delve deeper into the issue. 

Their doctor will also check to see if they’re meeting the typical developmental milestones for their age. And, their doctor will administer any vaccines that are needed. Furthermore, you can ask questions and share concerns you may have about their growth and development. 

How often should you take your child for a physical exam? 

You will take your child in for exams more often in their early years. Once they turn age 3, you should be able to take them in annually. How often you take your child in will depend on their specific case. However, the pattern generally goes as follows:

  • 3-5 days old
  • 1 month old
  • 2 months old
  • 4 months old
  • 6 months old
  • 9 months old
  • 12 months old
  • 15 months old
  • 18 months old
  • 2 years old (24 months)
  • 2½ years old (30 months)
  • Ages 3-21, once a year

Do note that you don’t have to wait until it’s time for your child’s scheduled checkup to go in if you have any concerns about their health. A parent’s intuition about their child’s health can be a lifesaver. 

Taking your child for yearly checkups is crucial until they can become responsible for their health and well-being. Annual checkups can help you stay on top of any medical problems that could occur. And, early intervention is often key in preventing and treating many medical conditions.

To schedule a physical exam for your child, or to get any other care, call 561-510-7859 or book an appointment online with Monarch Health Services, Inc., today.