CHAPTER 7 Standards of Care in Pediatrics
The First Pediatric Visit
A written handout should be created for the initial and subsequent visits. There are typically 3 to 4 pediatric visits between the ages of 6 to 20 weeks (corresponding with vaccination dates), depending on the age of the pet when it is first seen. Each visit and handout should cover different selected topics. A list of suggested topics can be found in Box 7-1. Since there is a large volume of information to be given to the new puppy or kitten owner and the average client remembers about 25% of what they hear, alternative learning aids are helpful. Systematically transferring information into smaller, easier-to-digest sections in a written format for the client to take home is a significant tool in client education.