By Karen Rice
Official Kids Mag
Hey kids! Do you get scared about going
to the doctor? Lots of kids do. But going to
the doctor is how we stay healthy. And it
isn't something to be afraid of.
You might think that going to the doctor
means you're sick. You might be scared
it will hurt. But sometimes, we go to the
doctor for a check-up, just to make sure we
are healthy.
What happens at a check up? You might
have to wait in the waiting room before your
appointment, so bring along a favorite game
or book to keep you busy while you wait.
Then, a nurse will weigh you and measure
your height to see how much you've grown.
They may take your temperature by putting
a thermometer under your tongue. It
doesn't hurt! They might take your blood
pressure by putting something around your
arm, which blows up like a balloon and then
deflates. That doesn't hurt either! When
you go into the exam, room the doctor
might listen to your heartbeat using a tool
called a stethoscope. It might be cold, but
it won't hurt. They
may look at your
throat and in your
ears with a special
instrument with a
light on it. Easy and
painless!
Then there's the BIG question — "Am I
going to get a shot?" You won't get a shot or
vaccine every time you go to the doctor, but
your adult can ask the doctor or nurse when
you get there. A shot can pinch or sting but
it will only last for a second. If you're feeling
really nervous ask your adult if you can bring
along a favorite toy or listen to your favorite
music. Maybe your adult will give you a
favorite snack afterwards.
We understand that you may get nervous
before your doctor's appointment, but
doctors and nurses are our friends. Talk to
your adult about why you're nervous and
ask them anything you're wondering about.
You can also ask the doctor or nurse to
explain things that you don't understand.
They are there to help.
We're grateful for
doctors & nurses!
what
is a
pediatrician?
a pediatrician is a doctor who
specializes in the health of
children. all their patients are
kids, so they see a lot of them
every day. don't be afraid to
ask your doctor questions, he
or she wants to make you feel
comfortable about going
to the doctor.
what is a
stethoscope?
the stethoscope was invented by a
french doctor and inventor in 1816
to help doctors listen to patient's
heartbeats. before the stethoscope
was invented, doctors listened by
putting their ear against a patient's
chest. the first stethoscope was a long
tube that a doctor put up to one ear.
stethoscopes have come
a long way since then.
Northwest arkansas Kids
check the pulse of Northwest
arkansas' newest pediatric
clinic. arcare springdale
pediatrics clinic is always
happy to provide the best
quality healthcare to their
young patients! learn more
at www.arcare.net or call
479-756-1699 to make an
appointment.
6 • NoVember 2020 • officialKidsmag.com
