In reality, newborns get their first exam within minutes of birth, but most parents won't be involved in this exam. Newborn Care in Holly Springs, NC, usually begins with a visit between day three and day five after birth. Dr. Maria Castro and Dr. Yenny Cruz of StarLight Pediatrics provide newborn exams and full pediatric care in the Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Fuquay-Varina, Lillington, and Wake County areas.
The American Academy of Pediatrics offers expert advice in the form of a handout. Their Bright Futures initiative has a folder you can print out that will help you understand what to expect on your first visit. You should make your appointment while you are still in the hospital, especially when the practice is busy.
Physical Examination
Your pediatrician will do a complete physical exam of your newborn. They will remove all the clothing so that they can see the entire body. The first step is to look good over the baby. Does everything look right? Does the baby have a good color? Are the hips aligned, and are the legs the same length? They will verify all the observations made during the initial exam, which took place minutes after birth. The infant has two major soft spots on the top of the head called fontanels. The doctor will check these and discuss how to care for them with you. The umbilical cord will also be examined to make sure all is well.
Measurements
Your newborn will be weighed and measured to see how it compares with others of its age. The circumference of the head will also be taken. The baby's temperature is taken, their heart and lungs are listened to, and their reactions are observed. The earlier anything out of the ordinary is observed, the sooner it can be corrected.
Questions
Your pediatrician will ask you a lot of questions about feeding, sleeping, and how you are coping with the youngest member of the family. This is your chance to get some answers as well. Have a list of questions that you will present to the doctor. Don't be afraid to ask anything. There are no stupid questions; chances are, you are not the first to ask the doctor these questions. Especially if this is your first child, it is all new, and you need all the answers you can get about newborn care in Holly Springs, NC.
Dr. Castro and Dr. Cruz of StarLight Pediatrics are board-certified pediatricians who offer newborn care in Holly Springs, NC. To schedule an appointment, call the office (919) 762-5113.