- Plan for the wait. The roughest part of a trip to the doctor can be waiting for your name to be called. For small children, bring diapering supplies with you, plus small toys or books and a light snack. Let older children bring books, handheld video games, or anything else they like to amuse themselves with.
- Keep a respectful distance from other children. If your child might have something contagious, try not to pass it around. Don’t feel embarrassed to ask your child to avoid the toy corner crowd if it looks like he or she might contract something there. If you suspect that your child may have chickenpox or another infectious disease, tell the office receptionist before you arrive. The doctor may want to isolate you and your child in an examining room right away.
- Be prepared. Before you go, think about what questions the doctor will ask and what you want to ask. Make a list to be sure you leave with the answers you need.
- Bring information about any medications. Make a list of all medications your child may be taking, including vitamins and over-the-counter remedies.
- Be ready to clearly describe any concerns you have. Be prepared to answer questions about your child’s diet, sleep habits, behavior, and about when, how long, and how often your child has symptoms.
- Set the tone. Your child learns from you how to relate to the office staff, nurses and physician. From you, the physician and staff pick up cues about how to treat your child. Friendly is good.
Excerpted from: Guide to Talking to Your Doctor, American Medical Association, 2001.