Understanding Common Screenings and Tests Performed During Well-Child Visits

Schedule well-child visits in Pasadena, TX, with Dr. Aldo Bejarano of AFB Pediatrics.

What Are the Common Screenings and Tests Conducted During Well-Child Visits?

Well-child visits are essential to keeping kids in good health. Childhood can be confusing for parents, and you may struggle to understand some of the behaviors and physical changes your child is exhibiting. The check-ups above are designed to reveal detailed information about your child’s condition. They also present opportunities for pediatricians to discover health issues.

Various screenings and tests are conducted during well-child visits.

Expect the pediatrician to measure your child’s blood pressure and heart rate. Percussion tests may also be performed to determine the health of the internal organs.

Blood tests are often included in those appointments. Pediatricians conduct blood tests to gauge a child’s iron and lead levels. Despite their young age, kids can also benefit from cholesterol screening. As children enter their adolescence, they may also benefit from regular STI (sexually transmitted infection) screening.

Some of the tests conducted during well-child exams gauge the strength of the senses. If your child is experiencing vision or hearing issues, you can expect them to emerge during testing.

Comprehensiveness is critical to the effectiveness of well-child exams. That’s why pediatricians ask questions to determine if screening for additional diseases is necessary. Depending on your questionnaire answers, the pediatrician may recommend screening for tuberculosis or hepatitis C.

You can also count on the pediatrician to examine your child’s spine. They will look for symptoms of conditions such as scoliosis to determine if intervention is necessary.

Dental exams are also included in well-child exams. Although they aren’t as detailed as dentists' tests, they can still uncover certain issues.

Work with Dr. Bejarano of AFB Pediatrics to ensure your child undergoes comprehensive well-child visits in Pasadena, TX.

When Should You Schedule Well-Child Visits?

Getting the timing right for your child’s wellness exams is crucial. Thankfully, there are guidelines you can follow when it comes to scheduling well-child visits.

The first appointment with the pediatrician should be set shortly after your child’s birth. You can follow up with one monthly visit during the next two months. The next visits should occur when your child is four months old and another when they are six months old. Until your child reaches 18 months old, the visits can be set three months apart.

One visit every six months is necessary after your child reaches 18 and should continue until their third birthday. After that milestone, well-child visits can become annual appointments.

Dial (832) 386-9200 and speak to Dr. Bejarano of AFB Pediatrics to book well-child visits in Pasadena, TX.