Pediatricians wear many hats. These doctors are medical detectives. They use science and observation to help kids and teens stay healthy. Pediatricians are caregivers, too. They use patience and creativity to put little ones (and parents) at ease. Here, two of these magicians of medicine discuss the ups and downs of their jobs. They also share how caring for young patients comes with big rewards.

Question

What comes to mind when you think of a pediatrician? It might be the doctor you see for your yearly checkups. Or the doctor who examines your throat when you're feeling sick. Dr. Ada Hanlon is one of these physicians. She cares for children of all ages in her office in South Florida. Other pediatricians, like Dr. Eric Jones, work solely in hospitals. He's a pediatric hospitalist in Zanesville, Ohio. Jones treats kids who need advanced care.

Both doctors manage a whirlwind of activity on any given workday. Hanlon sees patients every fifteen minutes. That amounts to more than 20 patients a day. She must also check lab results and answer calls from parents. Hanlon says she enjoys caring for kids of all ages. However, she gets the most satisfaction from seeing newborns and helping first-time parents. Hanlon said new parents are often anxious and tired. She aims to simplify information and offer encouragement, all while carefully monitoring the baby's development.

Jones usually begins his workday by examining the newborn babies at the hospital. Next he heads to the special-care nursery, where he treats babies who need extra medical support. Then, Jones typically makes his rounds on the hospital's pediatric wing. There, he cares for kids of all ages with everything from injuries to illnesses. Sometimes he helps other doctors in the emergency department. Talk about a busy day!

So, why did Hanlon and Jones choose to become pediatricians? Both doctors remarked that kids bounce back easily. "Children can get sick fast, but [they] can also heal quickly," Hanlon observed. Jones echoed that claim. He discussed the reward that comes from seeing a child recover from an illness and go back to being a lively kid.

What does it take to be a good pediatrician? Jones said pediatricians must remember that each child is unique. He also said that treating a two-year-old is much different than treating an eight-year-old or a sixteen-year-old. Hanlon talked about the "people skills" she needs for her job. "I believe a pediatrician needs to be…a good listener and observer," she said. Hanlon also said pediatricians must know how to stay calm. They work with children and parents who have different dispositions.

A pediatrician's job is a highly skilled balancing act. In this role, every day brings its share of surprises, struggles, and smiles. What is the most enjoyable part of Hanlon's job? "Hearing that I have made a difference in a child or family's life," she said. "It is a wonderful feeling, and it is what keeps me going."

Think about and discuss these questions:
What evidence from the article supports the idea that pediatricians can work in different kinds of environments?
Why do you think it is important for pediatricians to have patience?
Think about what you learned about pediatricians. What do they need to be able to do to be good at their job? What did you learn about this job?

Type your answer into th

Answer 1

Evidence of Different Work Environments for Pediatricians

The article provides clear evidence that pediatricians can work in various environments. For instance, Dr. Ada Hanlon has a private practice where she cares for children of all ages in her office, while Dr. Eric Jones serves as a pediatric hospitalist and works solely in a hospital setting. This distinction highlights that pediatricians can either provide care in outpatient clinics, focusing on preventive and routine care, or within hospitals, where they may treat more complex medical cases.

Importance of Patience for Pediatricians

Patience is crucial for pediatricians because they often deal with children who may be frightened or uncooperative during examinations. Young patients may not always understand what is happening, leading to anxiety or tantrums. Additionally, parents might be anxious or have many questions about their child's health. A pediatrician's patience helps create a calming environment and fosters trust between the doctor, the child, and the parents. This ultimately contributes to a more effective healthcare experience.

Skills and Qualities Needed to Be a Good Pediatrician

To be a successful pediatrician, several essential skills and qualities are needed, as highlighted in the article. These include:

1. Observational Skills: Pediatricians must be attentive observers to detect subtle changes in a child’s health.

2. Listening Skills: Good communication is vital for understanding the concerns of both the child and the parents, which aids in accurate diagnosis and treatment.

3. Adaptability: Pediatricians must tailor their approach based on the child's age and unique needs, recognizing that treatment varies significantly from toddlers to teenagers.

4. Calm Demeanor: Keeping calm during stressful situations helps to reassure both children and parents, contributing to a more positive experience.

These insights into the role of pediatricians highlight that it's not just about medical knowledge; emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills are equally important in this profession. Overall, being a pediatrician is a rewarding yet challenging job that requires a blend of compassion, expertise, and adaptability.