Tag: health

A pediatrician specializes in the behavioral, mental, and physical care of babies and children. They may also cater to teens and individuals older than 18 years if required. If you’re interested in becoming a pediatrician yourself, you might want to consider an online doctorate pediatric nurse practitioner program.

Pediatric doctors monitor child development, perform physical examinations/immunizations, and diagnose/treat illnesses. Since you will foster a long-term relationship with your child’s pediatrician, it is crucial to make the right pick at least three months before your baby’s due date. Today, we shall look at key tips you can use to select the best pediatrician for your newborn..

What Should Parents Expect From a Pediatrician?

A pediatrician will care for your newborn from birth up to 18 years of age. During this span, you must take your child to their doctor for several wellness visits that ensure proper mental and physical development. The appointment nature will start to vary as your child becomes older. However, the first checkup will be scheduled within the first five days of delivery. Once the first checkup is done, the next appointment will be scheduled after a month.

You can then expect the following appointments every two months up until the baby grows six months old. After that, the appointment span will grow apart by three months until the baby is 18 months old and bi-yearly until the baby is 30 months old. After this, appointments will be scheduled on an annual basis. You can expect the following from your pediatrician on each baby visit:

• Physical baby examination
• Development assessment 
• Shot administration
• Taking and recording baby measurements
• Question and answer session
• Discussion on safety and health topics
• Anticipatory guidance on child development and child safety and health

Things to Keep in Mind When Selecting a Pediatrician 

1. Office Location

The location of the clinic or office your pediatrician sits in is crucial as you will have to visit this spot multiple times during a baby’s first year in the world. Visits are typically frequent, with a gap of only two to three months.

Opt for a doctor that is near your home, workplace, or daycare, as this will not only save time spent on conveyance but will also make things more convenient. Make sure to opt for a pediatrician’s office that is easily accessible via public transport if you do not have your own vehicle.

2. Consider the First Checkup

While talking to different pediatricians, ask them whether your newborn’s first checkup will be conducted in the hospital. A few pediatricians visit the baby shortly after delivery, but only if affiliated with the baby’s birth hospital. Alternatively, you can also have your baby’s first checkup by a hospital-affiliated doctor and then have later checkups at your desired pediatrician’s office around five days after delivery.

• Your OB-GYN may recommend a suitable pediatrician
• You can also ask for pediatrician recommendations from a primary care physician or family doctor
• Ask for recommendations from your friends and family (especially those that have kids and are already in touch with a pediatrician)

3. Doctor’s Experience and Credentials

A pediatrician must be a medical school graduate, must have a state license, and should have completed a residency program. All pediatricians, however, do not necessarily need not have board certification. A board certificate is obtained through additional training and a voluntary process in pediatrics. Once complete, doctors are required to sit for an exam to get certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. A certification proves:

• Professionalism
• Communication skills
• Medical knowledge
• Patient care knowledge 

4. First Visit

An initial office visit can help you decide whether a pediatrician is suitable for your newborn. Make sure the doctor you pick makes you feel comfortable, is willing to communicate readily, and is gentle with your newborn.

It is also a good idea to notice if your pediatrician takes a genuine interest in your child and is willing to familiarize you with unique issues your baby may have. Always listen to your gut. If you do not feel comfortable with a certain doctor, consider another pediatrician instead.

Expecting families are also often offered introductory visits by various pediatrician offices so parents can tour the clinic, get acquainted with the staff, and ask critical questions.

Questions to Ask a Pediatrician On Your Introductory Visit 

1. Is there a separate waiting area for sick and healthy children?
2. How long does a regular checkup take?
3. What hospital network do you use, and do you have any subspecialties?
4. Ask questions about immunization, breastfeeding, co-sleeping, antibiotics, and circumcision.
5. When should I schedule my appointments?
6. Do you respond to email queries?
   
7. Does the clinic allow last-minute or same-day appointments?
   
8. What are the clinic timings and schedule?
   
9. Is the clinic operational on weekends and evenings?
   
10. Will your baby see the same pediatrician or separate ones if it is a group practice?

Endnote

A baby will visit their pediatrician several times during childhood and adolescence, so it is necessary to pick a doctor you are truly comfortable with. This will not only ensure the best care possible, but will also allow your child to get well adjusted with their doctor as they grow.

Marijuana legalization has become a hot topic in recent years, with more and more states across the US legalizing its use for medical and recreational purposes. However, with this newfound freedom comes a responsibility to ensure it is used safely and responsibly. 

One area of concern is marijuana use while driving, as it can impair one’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. The question is, can you be arrested for marijuana intoxication while driving? The answer is yes.

While marijuana laws vary from state to state, most have strict rules against driving while under the influence of marijuana. This article will look at the legal ramifications of using drugs and the possible penalties. So, buckle up and read on to learn more about the laws surrounding marijuana use and driving.

How Can an Officer Determine if You Are Intoxicated

The first test an officer will do is the field sobriety test. The field sobriety test is a series of questions and observations that officers use to determine if you are under the influence of drugs. However, the field sobriety test is not an exact science, and no set number of errors will indicate that you are intoxicated.

The officer will ask you to perform specific tasks, such as walking heel-to-toe, standing on one leg, and counting backward from 100 by 7s. The officer will also ask you to do simple skills like reading a license plate or putting on your glasses.

These tests determine whether or not drugs impair the driver. If you fail these tests, then it means that you could be charged with driving under the influence.

What Are the Marijuana DUI Laws?

Marijuana DUI laws vary by state. However, it’s illegal to operate a vehicle under the influence of marijuana.

In some states, “per se” laws set a specific limit for THC (the psychoactive compound in marijuana) that can be in a driver’s blood. 

Other states do not have specific THC limits and instead rely on other factors to determine if a driver is impaired, such as field sobriety tests and observations by law enforcement officers.

However, you should note that the effects of marijuana on driving can vary depending on several factors, such as;

• The potency of the marijuana, 
• The method of consumption and the 
• Individual’s tolerance level. 

Therefore, it’s important not to drive after consuming marijuana, even if you think you’re not impaired.

What Should You Do After Being Arrested for DUI Intoxication

If you are arrested for marijuana intoxication, staying calm and cooperating with law enforcement officers is essential. Here are some steps you can take:

• Don’t admit guilt: It’s important to remember that law enforcement officers can use what you say against you in court. Therefore, it’s best to avoid admitting guilt or providing any incriminating statements.
• Contact an attorney: It’s essential to contact an experienced marijuana DUI lawyer as soon as possible. Your attorney can advise you on your legal options, protect your rights, and represent you in court.
• Understand the charges: Your attorney can help you understand the charges you are facing, the potential penalties, and the legal process. They can also help you develop a defense strategy based on the facts of your case.
• Follow court orders: If you are released on bail or bond, it’s essential to follow all court orders and appear at all scheduled court appearances. Please do so to avoid additional charges and penalties.
• Avoid substance use: It’s important to avoid using substances that could impair your judgment or affect your case, including marijuana, alcohol, and prescription drugs.

Did you know that in 2018 at least one in eight high school students drove under the influence of marijuana in the previous month?

What are the penalties?

States have different laws regarding driving under the influence of marijuana. They can depend on several factors, including the driver’s blood THC level, whether you caused an accident or injuries, and if it’s a first or repeat offense.

The penalties for a marijuana DUI conviction can include:

• Fines
• Suspension or revocation of driver’s license
• Mandatory drug education or treatment/rehab programs,
• Community service
• Jail time

Repeat offenders or those who cause serious injury or death may face more severe penalties.

For example, Phoenix has a maximum ten-day prison sentence and a five-year probationary period as a penalty for a first-time marijuana DUI conviction. If you are found guilty of a second crime, you might spend at least 30 days in jail and then receive a probationary sentence of up to five years. In contrast, in California, a first-time marijuana DUI conviction can result in up to six months in jail, fines up to $1,000, license suspension for up to six months, and required drug education or treatment program completion.

It’s important to remember that driving under the influence of any substance, including marijuana, can be dangerous and put yourself and others at risk. It’s always better to find a sober driver or alternative transportation if you have consumed any substances that could impair your driving abilities.

Hire the Best Marijuana DUI Lawyer

If you have been charged with DUI based on your use or possession of marijuana, then you may want to seek legal representation immediately. If there is evidence that someone else was responsible for your actions, those charges may not hold up in court. In addition, if your case involves a medical condition such as PTSD or depression, a marijuana DUI lawyer will know how best to defend against these charges.