Questions You Forgot to Ask at the Pediatrician?

My husband usually takes the boys to the doctor because it's just easier for him to get off work. I start writing down questions like 2 weeks ahead of time, then I write out a list of everything I need signed for each person and each question I have for the doc. Sometimes my hubby will look at the list like I'm nuts, but thankfully he does what he's told and just gives it to the doctor!!

It is always good to have those questions written down.

M

I like to ask about sleep and eating expectations, upcoming developmental milestones (gross, fine and social). Also, if there are any behavioral/ learning issues that we are concerned with, I raise them then.

The one question I need to voice more often, is, "what happens if we don't." My ped is pretty laid back and happy to let colds run their course, etc. Others in her practice are quick to recommend additional tests, medicine etc. The "what happens if we don't" question helps me to step back and make informed decisions.

It is really handy when for instance, they want to do a throat swab. Either way the course of action is going to be liquids, and rest, and hope for it to resolve in 7-10 days. I might opt not to have a throat swab done since it is diagnostic, not curative.

good luck with your annuals,
F. B.

I cannot think of anything specifically but I, like you, always went with a list of questions to prepare myself. If you do forget something simply call the office and leave a message for the pediatrician.

What age are your kids? It's easier to answer the question if we knew the age (at least for me)

Are they at the "right" level (motor skills, vocabulary, etc) for their age group?
They are getting "X" amount of sleep during the night - is this about right for their age group?
What should I be expecting next?

Sorry - can't be of more help!!!

I forgot to ask things like food or no food with medication or what can be taken with what-all answered very nicely by a pharmacist.
When I couldn't get the doctor I called the pediatrics department at the hospital. Nurses were often very nice.

Medications that are dosed by weight for little ones, like Tylenol and Benadryl, but don't have the doses on the bottle, I always forget to ask for the current dosage chart. Thank goodness, they copied the Tylenol for me, but my kids both have allergies to just about everything, and it seems like I always have to call in the middle of an allergy attack for the Benadryl dosage. I would like to remember to get a copy of that chart, too, to tape inside my medicine cabinet, but I'm generally asking about the daily allergy meds, and forget about the "short-term-need-it-right-now" ones.

It seems like I am always asking for food advice and recommendations, too. My eldest has texture issues, and we're working to get around that.

Don't forget to get a copy of their records for school!