Our Services / Comprehensive Physical Exams

What are comprehensive physical exams?

A comprehensive physical exam assesses your child’s physical-growth/development, mental, and emotional health. These checkups present an opportunity to discuss unusual symptoms, ask questions, and build a relationship with Dr. St. Etienne.

It’s essential to schedule comprehensive physical exams, even if your child seems healthy. Many chronic health problems develop slowly over time. Regular visits to Dr. St. Etienne can alert you and help you determine the best course of treatment.

Are there different types of comprehensive physical exams?

Dr. St. Etienne offers several types of comprehensive physical exams, including:

• Annual Well Exams
• School physicals
• Sports physicals
• Pre-college physicals
• Vision and hearing screenings

Dr. St. Etienne also offers behavioral health visit to identify underlying conditions like depression, autism, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

What do comprehensive physical exams involve?

A comprehensive exam features several steps, including:

Step one: Checking your child’s vitals and reviewing their medical history

At the beginning of a physical,  the patient's weight,  length/height and head circumference are taken. Then, their blood pressure ( starting at 3 years of age or as needed )is taken as well as the heart and respiratory rate. 

Next, Dr. St. Etienne reviews your child’s medical records and asks about their lifestyle, including how often they exercise, if they have any underlying health problems, and if they take prescription medication. If your child is shy, feel free to speak on their behalf.

Step two: Complete physical exam

Next, Dr. St. Etienne conducts a complete physical exam. She examines your child’s skin for any abnormal moles or growths; checks their eyes, ears, nose, and throat; tests their reflexes and muscle tone; listen to their heart and lungs and gently palpates their abdomen to assess the size and position of their organs.

Step three: Lab testing

After completing the physical exam, Dr. St. Etienne orders a series of lab tests as needed. Depending on your child’s age and medical history, the tests might include blood work, urinalysis, or a culture.

Step four: Updating immunizations

Many schools and organized sports leagues require students and student-athletes to have certain immunizations. After reviewing your child’s medical records, Dr. St. Etienne can develop a vaccination schedule that aligns with your child’s needs.

Step five: Answering questions and filling out the necessary paperwork

At the end of a comprehensive physical, Dr. St. Etienne sets aside time to answer questions. If your child has any paperwork that needs filling out, Dr. St. Etienne completes it so you can submit it to the proper authorities.

To learn more about the importance of comprehensive physical exams, make an appointment for your child at Children’s Medical Clinic by calling the office or booking online today.