The picture above depicts the scale and height measuring tool in the office. In the right background you can see the baby scale!
Today was my fourth day with Carolina Kids Pediatrics. Even though it was a Monday, we only had a few sick/walk-in patients and a steady (but not overflowing) amount of regular check-ups/scheduled visits. Some new things today included lice, concussions, eczema, and advanced babies! Of course, we had the usual coughs, colds, and fevers. For those three visits, Dr. Willey usually recommends popsicles and ice creams to help sore throats, fluids, rest, and time. In the end, each kid will survive the illness with a little TLC (and veggies and liquids).
However, today was special because of the new visits. The best part of today was working with a few advanced babies. They could each pull from a large vocabulary to dictate their current thoughts. I was particularly impressed by their ability to convey their thoughts both through speech and expression. The babies would open their mouths to show growing teeth, clap, and say “yaaaay” and “uh-oh” 6 months before most other kids develop those abilities. Dr. Willey noted that each of those children were advanced for their age and demonstrated advanced social skills. However, we both agree that many other kids show growth through their walking and thinking skills. Some kids come in for their visits able to walk and control their body more than others. On the other hand, some kids respond to commands and show a deep understanding of their surroundings without having to speak. The biggest takeaway from today (and the past week) is that every child is special and follows their own growth pattern. Just because a child cannot walk as well as the other doesn’t mean they’re any less successful. Dr. Willey and her colleagues adopt this philosophy and practice it through their everyday lives. I have seen each doctor interact with children and assure their parents that just because the child hasn’t hit this one specific benchmark doesn’t mean they have not made any steps towards growth.
In addition to accepting kids of all walks of life and appreciating all their capabilities, Carolina Kids Pediatrics always accommodates the needs of their patients. Everyday I hear Dr. Willey and her colleagues tell their patients and their parents “our scale is your scale”. The phrase means that families with infants can come in anytime to weigh their child since many families do not have access to baby scales. Also, they tell each of their patients to use the room as long as they need after the visit has concluded. Thus, Carolina Kids creates a comfortable and accommodating environment for their patients.
Overall, I’m truly grateful to be shadowing in an office that treats all their patients equally and with care. The doctors’ and nurses’ knowledge of pediatric medicine and pure love for working with children shines through each visit. I can’t wait for tomorrow!
Fun Facts:
– Babies should gain a 1/2 oz to 1 oz a day.
– Hummus and beans can be a nice source of protein for kids.
– Many kids in the area are homeschooled.
– Asthma can develop during preschool or later at around 8 years of age.
– Babies should begin eating solid (but soft) foods between 4-6 months of age.
– Infants do not develop a sleep cycle until 4 months of age.
– Infants usually begin teething at 6 months.
– Within the first few weeks of life, a newborn’s skin will peel regardless of any lotion.
– Begin introducing your child to toothbrushing and toothpaste around 12 months by letting them play with the materials.
– The office schedules wellness visits every 30 minutes and sick visits ever 15 minutes.
