Well Child Exam Specialist
Valencia Pediatrics
Pediatrics located in High Desert, Victorville, CA
As an experienced and knowledgeable pediatrician, the highest priority for Rainilda Valencia, MD, is ensuring your child’s health through all stages of life. To give your child the best start in life and the highest level of preventive care possible, Dr. Valencia, Micaela Marin-Tucker, PA-C, and Megan Reynolds, C-PNP, offer well-child exams at Valencia Pediatrics in Victorville, California, also serving the High Desert communities of Hesperia and Apple Valley. These visits are the most effective way to monitor your child’s development and overall health. The staff also tries to accommodate same-day sick visits to get your child feeling well again. Learn more about well-child exams and sick visits by calling Valencia Pediatrics or scheduling an appointment online today.
Well Child Exam Q & A
Why does my child need a well-child exam?
Well-child exams are an important part of preventive care. To ensure your child is healthy and growing properly, Dr. Valencia uses well-child exams to monitor any changes in their development and identify abnormalities in the earliest stages. Early identification of medical issues allows her to begin treatment right away, helping to achieve a more successful outcome.
These regularly scheduled visits should start soon after birth. Infants and toddlers should be seen every few months until they go to school. Dr. Valencia recommends yearly appointments for school-age children unless they have an existing medical condition, in which case more frequent visits may be necessary.
What can I expect during a well-child exam?
Each well-child exam begins with an in-depth discussion of your child’s overall health and development. Dr. Valencia also reviews your child’s medical and family history to determine if any additional health screenings are necessary during the appointment.
Dr. Valencia performs a physical exam, checking your child’s skin, reflexes, and strength. She also listens to their heart and lungs and evaluates the health of their ear, nose, and throat.
If your child needs vaccinations, a well-child exam is the ideal time to administer them, ensuring they are up-to-date on all shots. Additional immunizations are available if you plan to travel with your child out of the country.
What kind of tests happen at a well-child visit?
If any issues arise during the exam, or if your child has an existing medical condition, Dr. Valencia may perform additional in-office tests, such as blood work, to monitor current treatments or confirm a new diagnosis.
Other on-site testing options are available if your child needs additional treatment during a sick visit.
What happens during a sick visit?
If your child isn’t feeling well and doesn’t seem to be getting better with at-home treatment, you can schedule a sick visit with Dr. Valencia and her staff for a thorough evaluation.
You should always contact Valencia Pediatrics if your child has symptoms like:
- Dehydration
- Fever of 103℉ or higher
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Dr. Valencia can evaluate your child and prescribe necessary medications and care instructions to help resolve their symptoms and discomfort.
If your child suffers a direct injury, such as from sports or a fall, they should also receive an evaluation. In the event of a serious head injury, you may need to take your child to the local emergency room or call 911.
Schedule a well-child exam or sick visit today by calling Valencia Pediatrics or using the online booking feature to check for the next available opening.