Bringing your baby home is one of life’s most incredible journeys, and the first few days are often a whirlwind of excitement and adjustments. One of the most important milestones during this first week is your baby’s initial visit to the pediatrician.

At Premier Pediatrics, Dr. Charisse Johnson, MD, and our entire team are here to welcome your growing family. We’ve provided this guide to help make your first experiences at our Granger, IN, clinic as smooth and reassuring as possible.

Timing the First Visit

Newborns undergo rapid changes in the first few days of life. For this reason, we typically like to see your baby in our office three to five days after birth, or within 48 hours of being discharged from the hospital. This timing is essential for professional monitoring of your baby’s transition to the world outside the womb.

What Happens During the Appointment?

The first pediatrician visit is a thorough clinical evaluation designed to ensure your baby is thriving. Here is what you can expect during your time with Dr. Johnson:

• Growth and Vitals: We will carefully measure your baby’s weight, length, and head circumference. It is very common for newborns to lose a small percentage of their birth weight in the first few days, and we will monitor this to ensure they are on the right path toward regaining it.
• Physical Examination: Dr. Johnson will perform a head-to-toe clinical exam. This includes checking the umbilical cord stump, listening to the heart and lungs, checking hip stability, and examining the soft spots on the baby’s head.
• Feeding and Nutrition: Whether you are breastfeeding or formula feeding, we will discuss how your baby is eating. This is a great time to ask questions about latching, feeding frequency, or any concerns about your baby’s digestion.
• Jaundice Screening: We will check your baby’s skin and eyes to ensure bilirubin levels are normal and that their liver is functioning properly.

A Supportive Partnership for Parents

At Granger, IN’s Premier Pediatrics, we consider newborn care to be about supporting the parents just as much as the infant. This visit is your opportunity to gain professional peace of mind. We encourage you to bring a list of questions, no matter how small they may seem. We often discuss:

1. Sleep Safety: Reviewing the best clinical practices for a safe sleep environment.
2. Diapering and Hydration: Understanding what is normal for your baby’s output and skin care.
3. Soothing Techniques: Discussing ways to calm a fussy baby and manage the transition to life at home.
4. Office Logistics: Explaining how to reach us after hours and how we handle same-day sick visits.

Building a Medical Home in Granger

Choosing a pediatrician is a significant decision. Our goal at Premier Pediatrics is to be a reliable resource for your family as your child grows from an infant into a healthy young adult. By establishing this clinical relationship early, you ensure that your baby has a consistent medical home where their health history is carefully documented and their development is celebrated.

Is it time for your baby's first check-up? Contact Premier Pediatrics today at our Granger, IN, office to schedule your newborn visit with Dr. Charisse Johnson. We can’t wait to meet your little one! Call (574) 855-4575.