Paediatrics Paediatrics
Children’s health from birth to adolescence, including growth, development and vaccination.
Who is usually sent here
Any health concern in a child. The threshold for bringing a child in is far lower than for adults, especially under three months.
What this specialty does NOT cover
Never apply adult figures to a child. Weight, height, heart rate and breathing rate are all read against age-specific charts, and doses are worked out by weight.
What a first visit usually involves
Weighing and plotting on a growth chart, a general examination, and questions about eating, sleep, school and home.
Bring with you
The vaccination record, the growth book, and notes on eating and bowels over recent days.
Worth asking
- Where is my child on the growth chart
- Which signs at this age mean emergency care
- Which vaccinations are still missing