The Check-Up
What happens at a check-up?
- A doctor checks you all over.
- A doctor looks for things that might make you sick.
Why should I get a check-up?
- A check-up helps you find out if your health is OK.
- If the doctor finds something wrong: Y
- You and your doctor can make a plan to get you well.
- You can start working on the plan right away.
At your check-up, the doctor will:
- Do some tests to check your health
- Talk to you about your health
- Ask about your family’s health
- Answer your health questions
What kind of tests will happen at the doctor’s office?
- A nurse will measure your height and weight.
- A nurse will take your blood pressure by:
- Wrapping a band around your arm and pumping it to check your blood pressure
A nurse may take a little of your blood for testing.
- A needle is used to take the blood.
- Tell the nurse or your support person if this bothers you.
Other Kinds of Tests
- The doctor might look at:
- Your skin
- Other parts of your body
- They could be checking for cancer.
What happens after the check-up?
- If your health is OK, you will come back at least once a year.
- If the doctor wants to know more about your health:
- You might need to take more tests.
- The doctor will write up a plan.
- The plan will help you get healthy.
Things to remember about check-ups:
- Get a check-up at least once a year.
- Tell the doctor everything about your health.
- Ask questions about your health.
- Take someone with you if you do not want to go alone.
Resources
This checklist will help you remember questions for the doctor.