Paediatric examination of a healthy infant

Pediatric examinations and choosing a pediatrician in Croatia

A primary paediatrician is a doctor who cares for children from birth to at least school age. They provide care for both healthy children (preventive check-ups and vaccinations) and sick children (treatment as needed).

Each paediatrician sets aside specific hours for healthy child check-ups and separate time for examinations and treatment of sick children. Therefore, it is important to schedule an appointment and arrive on time.

The first paediatric examination typically takes place one month after birth with the paediatrician of your choice. During the first visit, as well as in most subsequent check-ups of a healthy infant, the following procedures are performed:

• measurement of weight, length and head circumference
• examination of the child's motor development
• assessment of feeding habits and any related issues
• discussion of any concerns or questions regarding the child’s growth and development
• prescription of necessary vitamins, to be collected at the pharmacy
• administration of scheduled vaccinations, if due.

To ensure a smooth and efficient first visit to the paediatrician, it is recommended to:

• write down any concerns or topics you wish to discuss with the paediatrician in advance
• take the discharge letter from the maternity hospital and the vaccination booklet with you
• bring two tetra diapers (rectangular-cut cloth diapers) with you, as these will be used to lay the baby on during the examination and weighing
• if possible, bring an interpreter with you (inform in advance which language you or your companion - in the role of the interpreter - speaks
• if the child is hungry while waiting, feel free to breastfeed the child in the waiting room
• if using formula, bring a pre-prepared bottle in case your baby gets hungry.

During the visit, you will receive an appointment for the next healthy child check-up, typically aligned with the child's vaccination schedule. If your child requires an earlier or additional check-up outside of scheduled visits, this can be arranged with a prior phone call.

During your first visit, be sure to inquire about:

• who replaces the paediatrician during vacations or absences
• what time during working hours can you bring a sick child
• availability of an on-call paediatric outpatient clinic at the community health centre on Saturdays and Sundays, or where to seek medical help outside of regular working hours
• which hospital your child will be referred to in case of serious illness when the paediatrician is unavailable
• how to reach the paediatrician for urgent concerns or general inquiries (phone/email)