It has become a fact in recent years that you may walk into the doctor’s office healthy and walk out sick. It is extremely important for your child to go to a pediatric doctor office in San Diego to receive their periodic health care check-ups. These are necessary to be sure your child is developing normally and is a time to discuss any fears or issues you may be experiencing about your child. Unfortunately, sick children are attending the same office at the same time and it is inevitable that germs are spread as a result. It is something that is almost impossible to avoid, but there are steps you can take to minimize the risk.
The waiting rooms and examination areas at the doctor are a breeding ground for all types of bacteria. It has been found that one in five toys in the waiting rooms tested positive for influenza B virus. It has also been found that one in three stethoscopes have the same virus present. It is not surprising that your child gets sick in some way after leaving the pediatric doctor office.
Before You Enter the Waiting Room
There are a few things you can do before entering the waiting room. Have your child wash his hands before entering the reception area. Make sure he uses soap and very warm water, and then make sure they use paper towels to dry their hands for at least 15 seconds. If your child wears a mask into the waiting area, he will not be able to inhale any bacteria that may be floating in the air. Book the earliest appointment possible so there have not been many children in the office yet that may pass around bacteria.
While in the Waiting Room
It is best to bring your own toys for your child to play with when going to the pediatric doctor office. It is obvious that your little one will want anything other than what you brought, but you may be able to distract him until you get called into the examination area. Maybe make the suggestion to the office to supply boxes of crayon and recycled paper instead of sharing toys to minimize the possibility of transmission. Also, if feasible, keep your child on your lap to avoid possible contamination from the chairs in the room.
In the Examination Areas
Have your child use a hand sanitizer upon leaving the waiting room to hopefully destroy any germs he may have contracted. Try to keep your child confined to your lap or the paper on the exam table that is supplied specifically for you. Also, politely ask your doctor to clean the stethoscope before using it on your child.
It is hard enough to keep your child healthy throughout the year and it is ironic that you have to worry about your child getting sick when you take him to the pediatric doctor office, but it is a reality. If you try your best to follow the above precautions, you will have the greatest chance of your child remaining healthy after his visit. Click here for more information.
