Visiting the paediatrician with your baby - PDF preparation checklist
This checklist helps you prepare for your baby's first or a later appointment. It does not set dates for tests, vaccinations or check-ups. These depend on the country and your baby's needs. If your baby needs urgent help, do not wait for a scheduled appointment.
Choose the main point to discuss
Even a brief note can help you remember what worried you at home. Mark your most important question and start with it. Describe what you notice without trying to make a diagnosis yourself. If you have several topics, ask the clinic whether a longer discussion or another appointment is possible.
Share up-to-date information
The medicines list should reflect what your baby actually receives, including over-the-counter products and supplements. Show the instructions or packaging if the name is unclear. Documents from other clinics help bring information together. You do not need to recall the entire history from memory or keep a detailed diary unnecessarily.
Leave with a plan you understand
At the end, check what to do at home, what to expect and when to seek help again. You can say, 'I want to check that I have understood correctly', then repeat the arrangements. Ask for a written plan if needed. The checklist does not replace a prescription, professional instructions or the agreed way to obtain results.
Urgent symptoms change the day's plan
An appointment in the calendar does not mean you should wait despite deterioration. Tell reception that your baby is unwell and describe the current symptoms. In an emergency, use local emergency services. This checklist does not assess the urgency of symptoms or help you rule out illness yourself.
Preparation checklist
Arrange the practical details
- Confirm the date, location and how to contact the clinic; check which documents and any referral are required.
- Ask whether any special preparation is needed; do not change feeding or medicines without instructions from the care team.
- Let the clinic know if you need an interpreter, communication support or other adjustments for your baby and the person caring for them.
- Pack feeding and changing supplies, a spare outfit and the documents your clinic needs.
Prepare information and questions
- Bring your baby's health record or local equivalent, discharge summaries and relevant results if the clinic cannot access them.
- Prepare an up-to-date list of medicines, supplements and allergies; for medicines, note the instructions given by the treating professional.
- Note the main observations about feeding, sleep, bowel movements or development that you want to discuss.
- Put your questions in order of importance. For new symptoms, note when they started and how they have changed over time.
During and after the discussion
- Start with your main concern and say if your baby has become more unwell since you booked.
- Ask for an explanation of the purpose of tests or treatment, possible benefits and risks, and the available options.
- Repeat the agreed plan in your own words; clarify anything you are unsure about regarding medicines, results and follow-up care.
- Note who to contact and when, how you will receive results, and what deterioration requires urgent help.
Questions to discuss with a professional
- What matters most about the symptoms or difficulties we have noticed?
- What is the plan for home, and how will we know if we need help sooner?
- How will we receive results, and who can answer questions after the appointment?
Frequently asked questions
Does this checklist set the date of the first appointment?
No. Arrange the timing with your care team after birth or discharge, according to the local healthcare system and your baby's needs. The checklist helps you prepare for the discussion; it does not replace an agreed schedule.
Should we stop feeds or medicines before the appointment?
Do not change them solely on the basis of this checklist. Ask the clinic whether a particular test requires preparation and follow the individual instructions.
What should I do if I do not understand the advice?
Say so during the discussion and ask for a simpler explanation or a written plan. Agree how to ask a question after you leave. Do not guess how to give a medicine.
How to use this checklist
Tick the points you have discussed or prepared and add your own arrangements. Ticking a box does not confirm safety, health status or completion of a medical procedure. Revisit the checklist as your family's needs change.
Sources and updates
- American Academy of Pediatrics / HealthyChildren - Team Up with Your Child’s Doctor for the Best Care
- National Institutes of Health - How To Prepare for a Doctor’s Appointment
- NHS - When to get urgent medical help for babies and children under 5
- HSE Ireland - Get urgent medical help if your child is very unwell