Expecting

Expecting?

Congratulations! Parenthood is one of life’s greatest joys. We love to see new families discover the wonders (and challenges) of parenting! Our goal is to help you ensure that your baby grows up healthy and that you have all the support you need to be happy and effective parents. Our providers welcome newborns and are glad to schedule a free get-to-know-you visit. Call Eugene Pediatric Associates at (541) HUG-KIDS (or 541-484-5437) to make an appointment. Some parents already know they want to join our practice. For those who are still undecided, here are some useful facts and answers to common questions.

When do we see your baby for the first time?

We believe that the doctor-patient relationship should start at birth. If your baby is born at Sacred Heart Hospital at RiverBend, your Eugene Pediatric Associates pediatrician will see your baby starting on day one of life. Each day that you and your baby are in that hospital, your pediatrician will visit you to examine your baby and answer your questions. Within a few days of going home, you will see your pediatric provider at our office.

What will happen to my baby while we are in the hospital?

Babies receive a vitamin K shot soon after birth to prevent potential bleeding problems, as well as erythromycin eye ointment to avoid eye infection that sometimes occurs during birth. Your baby will be given his first state-screening blood test (the PKU test), which tests for a variety of metabolic diseases. His hearing will be checked and a hepatitis B vaccine will be offered; this immunization can be deferred until later in infancy, if you prefer, but all of the pediatricians at Eugene Pediatric Associates encourage you to vaccinate your newborn against Hepatitis B. Lactation consultants and nurses will also be on hand to provide breastfeeding mothers with advice and assistance.

Photos can be taken and posted on the hospital website for your family and friends to see. Birth certificate and newspaper announcements can be filled out with the assistance of hospital staff. And we will visit and examine your baby each day and answer any questions you may have about this new little bundle of joy.

Do you recommend vaccines?

We believe vaccines save babies’ lives and we strongly recommend that you protect your baby against the many vaccine-preventable diseases that are present or reemerging in the United States. Although we hope you will follow the standard vaccine schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Center for Disease Control, we will work with you on an alternate vaccine schedule if you desire a different plan for your child. Find out more about childhood vaccines.

What about antibiotic use?

Antibiotics are important in treating serious bacterial infections, but we try hard not to overuse them in our practice, due to concerns about antibiotic-resistant germs and side effects of medications. Each time we see your baby for an illness, we will discuss with you whether antibiotics are indicated for treatment and ways to make your baby feel more comfortable while he is sick.

What happens if I think my baby is sick?

Call our office 24 hours a day, seven days a week for help when your baby is sick or injured, or when you are concerned and want to talk with us.

We have same-day appointments available Monday through Friday, 9 am to 6 pm. When your child is urgently ill late at night or on a weekend, we will assist you in being seen in an urgent care or emergency room.

How do I coordinate my obstetrician/midwife and my pediatrician?

Once you choose a doctor at our practice, simply let your obstetrician or midwife know. When you deliver at a hospital, we will be notified when your baby is born. If you deliver at home, please call our office for your first appointment.

We’ve decided to adopt a child. What’s next?

We are excited for you! Come meet us as soon as you know you are adopting to get to know us and to let us answer any questions you may have about caring for your new child.

Do you help people prepare for adoption?

Adopting a child can seem overwhelming; we’re here to help. If you have a child with complex medical problems, we can assist you in reviewing any medical records to answer your questions about the future care of your child. For families traveling to other countries to adopt, we can discuss supplies to take with you, vaccines and a medical evaluation, which is recommended for your new arrival. Go to our adoption section for more helpful information about international adoption.

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