From Danville Regional Health System
Better Health Magazine Archives

What are important checkups my child should have before going back to school?

We like to see children at age 4-6 for a pre-kindergarten physical. We check their height, weight, and give them a head-to-toe physical before they enter school for the first time. We also make certain their immunizations are up to date and check their blood and urine for any abnormalities.

What could the blood and urine tests show?

We check hemoglobin levels to look for anemia, or low red blood cell counts. Urine is checked for high levels of protein, which may signal some types of kidney problems, and for high glucose levels, which may indicate possible diabetes. We also check for urinary tract infections that may not be symptomatic.

What other tests are important?

It's important to have a child's vision and hearing checked to uncover any deficiencies, particularly if there is family history for these problems. Not being able to hear the teacher or see the board can result in learning problems that could have been avoided. We also look for any speech difficulties so that if needed, therapy can be started early.

What immunizations are needed before a child enters school?

At the pre-kindergarten checkup, a child is given a second MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), the last in the DTaP series (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) and inactivated polio vaccine. Hepatitis B and Varicella (chicken pox) may be given if the child did not receive them as an infant. Immunization forms which will need to be filed in your child's school record are available at your doctor's office or your public health department.