Tips for caring for common childhood illnesses. JUMP TO SECTION: Simple Illness Care Bug Bites Insect bites cause itchy, red bumps; some bites may be painful Mosquitoes breed in water. Eliminate standing water near your home Many bugs and mosquitoes are prevalent in woods and grassy areas Home Care Avoid scented soaps, perfume and hair spray (these attract insects) Wear light colored clothing covering most of the body Keep children indoors from dusk to dawn, which is when mosquitoes bite Insect repellent containing a concentration of 10% to 30% DEET appears to be safe for children over the age of 2 months. Insect repellant is not recommended for children under the age of 2 months Apply DEET sparingly to exposed skin and NOT under clothing Always wash DEET off skin with soap and water when returning indoors and wash treated clothing If the bite is itchy apply calamine lotion; If bit is very itchy apply 1% hydrocortisone Has an infected looking bite Has a bite that becomes very tender Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Chickenpox Acute viral illness that is very contagious; exposure approximately 2 weeks ago to someone with chicken pox Can have a mild fever Generalized rash begins on the chest, back, underarms, neck, and face Rash begins as red bumps and develop a fluid filled center, blister, breaks open and small brown scab forms Rash will continue to develop over the next 4-5 days in crops When all sores have crusted over child is no longer contagious; generally takes 5-7 days Home Care Itching - baking soda baths (add ¼ cup of baking soda to the tub) or an oatmeal bath Benadryl Acetaminophen DO NOT GIVE IBUPROFEN or ASPIRIN Trim nails short to prevent infecting sores Offer soft foods, encourage fluids Has chicken pox sores that look infected Develops a speckled, red rash Is acting very sick Complains of eye pain Has Fever >105 or fever returns after going away for 24 hours Is < one month of age Has any new chicken pox after day 6 Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Colds A viral infection of the nose and throat Most common symptoms include runny or congested nose, sore throat and cough Nasal drainage (even if viral) can vary in color from clear, to cloudy, yellow or green Typically the first symptom noted is a sore throat Healthy children average 6 colds a year Home Care Increase humidity in child's room if the air is dry (cool mist humidifier) or have child sit in steamy bathroom with shower running for 10-15 minutes For infants use bulb syringe to help remove nasal secretions from nose May use saline drops in nose to help with congestion at any age Encourage extra fluids Elevate head of bed or have child sleep with head on more pillows (avoid laying flat in bed) Multi-symptom cold medications not recommended No cold medication recommended under age 4 years May give fever reducers for fever as needed Has a fever that persists for more than 3 days or if > 105 F Pulling at ears/or complains of ear pain Has symptoms for 10–14 days Is not taking fluids well Is not sleeping well Is wheezing Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Cough The sound made when the cough reflex expels air and secretions from the lungs A cough spasm is more than 5 minutes of continuous coughing Home Care Increase humidity in child's room if the air is dry (cool mist humidifier) or have child sit in a steamy bathroom with shower running for 10-15 minutes Elevate head of bed or have child sleep with head on pillows (avoid laying flat) Encourage fluid intake Warm fluids like apple juice may help Cough medication is not recommended for children under 4 years of age Sounding congested in the chest Is wheezing Seems to be working hard to breath Has a fever lasting for more than 3 days Has a cough lasting more than 2 weeks Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Croup The narrowing of the air passage through the larynx (voice box) and the trachea (windpipe) Is most often caused by a virus Symptoms can occur suddenly, often at night Symptoms may come and go for 5-6 days getting better during the day and worse at night Harsh barky cough Retractions ("pulling in" of the chest or hollow of the neck with breathing) Home Care Run shower to steam up the bathroom, sit with your child 15-20 minutes to breathe in the warm moist air In cold weather wrap child up warmly and take outside to breath in cold air for about 10 minutes, or open the freezer door and have child breathe in cold air Cool mist humidifier in childs room at night may help Is breathing in cold air or steam for 10-15 minutes and it does not help Child is having retractions ("pulling in" of the chest or hollow of the neck with breathing) Is refusing to drink Is drooling Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Diarrhea Noted to be a sudden increase in the number and looseness of stools (bowel movements) Typically caused by a virus Can last 5-14 days with the most severe diarrhea on days 1-2 Can be isolated or can also occur with vomiting Home Care Encourage to breast feed or give formula to infants as tolerated; avoid plain water Avoid fruit juices and other drinks high in sugar as these will make diarrhea worse If diarrhea is frequent and watery, pedialyte or another oral rehydration solution may be offered to help prevent dehydration (no longer than 12-24 hours) Encourage more starchy food--bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, noodles, crackers, etc. Yogurt can be helpful in restoring healthy bacteria into the stomach, offer plain or vanilla yogurt as tolerated Has signs of dehydration: no urine output noted for more than 8 hours, no tears with crying, very dry mouth, and increased drowsiness Has blood or mucous in stools Has fever persisting more than 3 days or if > 105 F Is having more than 8-10 episodes in a day Has severe stomach cramps that don't go away with the passage of the diarrhea stool Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Earache/Ear Pain Pain or discomfort in or around the ear Usually due to an ear infection Ear infections peak at age 6 months to 2 years Onset of ear infections peak on day 3 of a cold Only way to know if ear infection present is to have ear examined Home Care May give fever/pain reducers as needed May apply either cold washcloth or local heat (warm washcloth, heating pad on low setting, hot water bottle) to outer ear for 20 minutes to reduce pain Ear drops not recommended until ear pain evaluated Has a fever that persists for more than 3 days or if >105 F Ear pain gets severe Drainage noted from ear Is not taking fluids well Is not sleeping well Pulling or tugging at ear Fussy or irritable Has some loss of hearing Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Eye Discharge Yellow or green discharge from eye Home Care Place a wet warm wash cloth on the eye as needed Avoid wearing contact lenses Has continuous discharge from eye Has redness or puffiness around eye Has a fever or cold symptoms Is complaining of ear pain Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Fever Is a symptom and not a disease Is the body's normal response to infections and plays a role in fighting them Fever is present > 100.4 F The height of the fever does not relate to the seriousness of the illness, the behavior of your child is the best indicator of the severity of the illness Fever causes no permanent harm until it reaches 107 F Home Care Encourage extra fluids Keep clothing to a minimum, do not bundle up Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Motrin) may be given following the guidelines in Over the Counter Dosage Information AVOID aspirin in ALL children under the age of 21 years Is under 3 months of age and has a temp > 100.4 F rectally Has a fever > 105 F Is very irritable and unable to console Complains of stiff neck with a headache Has a fever persisting over 3 days Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Hay Fever An allergic reaction of the nose and sinuses to an inhaled substance, usually pollen Clear nasal drainage with sneezing, sniffing and nasal itching Eyes may also itch and water or look pink No fever Noted to have had similar symptoms during same time of the previous year Most common pollens are grass, trees and ragweed Can also be caused by allergens from cats, dogs, horses, rabbits and other animals Home Care Give antihistamine continuously during the pollen season May use warm water or salt water nose drops to wash pollen out of the nose – put 2-3 drops in each nostril and then blow nose Shower and wash hair every night before bed Stay away from pollen and other things that may cause symptoms to develop or worsen Keep windows closed in the house and car Avoid playing outdoors on a windy days Wash eyes to clean away any pollen May apply cold washcloth to eyes/eyelids for 10 minutes Develops a fever Develops sinus pain or pressure Has congested sounding cough in chest Continues to have symptoms with no improvement noted after taking antihistamine continuously for >2 days Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Poison Ivy A very itchy blistering rash caused by contact with the poison ivy plant Rash is shaped like streaks or lines Leaves, stems, roots and berries of these plants cause the rash More than 50% of people are sensitive to the oil of the poison ivy plant Onset 1-2 days after being in a forest or field; usually last two weeks Poison Ivy is not contagious to others but may be carried by pets Home Care If you think your child has come in contact with a poison ivy plant, wash the skin with soap and water as soon as possible The oil from the plant may be on pet"s fur or on shoes or clothes. Wash it off pets or clothes with soap and water Soak the involved area in cold water or massage with an ice cube for 20 minutes as often as necessary Apply 1% hydrocortisone cream 4 times a day to reduce itching If itching persists give Benadryl orally Has rash lasting longer than 3 weeks Looks infected Has severe itching Poison ivy on face, eyes, lips or genitals Rash covers more than ¼ of the body Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Sore Throat Most sore throats are caused by viruses and are part of a cold (usually noted at the beginning of a cold) About 10% of sore throats are due to strep bacteria A rapid strep test or throat culture is the only way to distinguish strep throat from a viral sore throat Children that sleep with their mouth open often awaken with a dry mouth and a sore throat Home Care Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Motrin) may be used for severe discomfort or fever Over 1 year of age: sip warm chicken broth or apple juice Over 4 years of age: suck on hard candy or lollipops Over 6 years of age: gargle with warm salt water (Mix ¼ tsp of salt per 8oz glass of water) Encourage extra fluids Offer a soft diet; easy to swallow foods Has a Fever lasting more than 3 days Has a sore throat lasts more than 2 days Seems dehydrated Is drooling Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Stye An infection of the hair follicle of the eyelash Will look like a red bump at the base of the eyelash,(either upper or lower eyelid) Usually comes to a head and forms a pimple in 2-3 days Will usually drain in about 6 days but may last up to several weeks Will feel tender to touch Home Care Apply warm packs to the eye for 10 minutes 4 times a day Keep hands away from eye, as rubbing may cause more styes Do not try to open the stye yourself Eye lid becomes red and swollen Has a fever Stye comes to a head and has not drained after 3 days or has not completely healed by 10 days Stye comes back Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Sunburn Burning, redness, or blistering of the skin caused by sun overexposure Can happen within 15 minutes of being in the sun Minor sunburn is a first degree burn which turns skin pink or red Prolonged sun exposure can cause blistering and a second degree burn Sunburn never causes a third degree burn or scarring Pain and swelling start at 4 hours, peaks at 24 hours, and improves after 48 hours Home Care Give child Ibuprofen Apply 1% hydrocortisone cream 3 times a day to sunburn Apply cool compresses to area several times a day Encourage child to drink extra water Leave closed blisters alone For broken blisters, trim skin with a fine scissors cleaned with rubbing alcohol For open blisters, apply over the counter antibiotic ointment Has a sunburn covering a large part of the body Is extremely painful or if blisters have formed Has a fever Feels faint or confused Has signs of dehydration Has symptoms of infection Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Swimmer's Ear Infection or irritation of the skin that lines the ear canal Associated with swimming/water activities Ear canals can be itchy and somewhat painful; ear feels plugged Discomfort noted when earlobe is moved up and down Can have a slight amount of clear drainage from the ear Home Care May give pain reducers as needed May apply local heat (warm washcloth, heating pad on low setting, hot water bottle) to outer ear for 20 minutes to help with pain and drainage Reduce/avoid swimming until symptoms are improved Pain gets severe and / or symptoms last more than 3 days Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Swimmer's Itch Skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to certain parasites that normally live on water fowl and freshwater snails Occurs typically in calm freshwater lakes and ponds Parasites burrow into the skin causing symptoms of burning, tingling or itching Parasites are unable to live off humans so they soon die Usually only affects exposed skin (skin not covered by swimsuits, waders, wetsuits) Rash may appear up to 48 hours after swimming in infected water and clears up on its own within a few days Swimming or wading frequently in contaminated water can lead to more intense and immediate symptoms Sometimes itching without a rash is the only symptom Itching at rash too much may lead to secondary bacterial infection Home Care Rinse skin immediately after swimming and then vigorously dry skin with a towel Launder swimsuits after Apply cool compresses to affected areas Soak in a bath with baking soda or oatmeal Stir water into baking soda until it makes a paste and then apply to affected areas Use over the counter antihistamine or anti-itch creams as directed by label on product Avoid swimming in areas where swimmer's itch is a known problem If itching not relieved by over the counter medications Develops signs of infection due to itching (ie increased redness, fever, drainage at site) If symptoms last more than one week Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Vomiting Is the forceful emptying of the stomach contents (throwing up) Spitting up is the effortless regurgitation of one to two mouthfuls of stomach contents Vomiting usually stops in 12 – 24 hours Dehydration (getting dried out) can be dangerous, but is unlikely in the first 12 hours of vomiting Home Care If no vomiting has occurred for at least ½ hour begin to offer clear liquids (for younger children pedialyte, for older children flat 7-up, Gatorade freeze pops, chicken broth); begin with ½ oz every 15 minutes; if no vomiting after 1 hour begin to double the amount of fluid every other time. If vomiting occurs again wait ½ hour and begin offering ½ oz of clear liquid Once the child is able to drink a normal amount of fluid without vomiting (usually 12-24 hours of clear liquids) ok to begin solid foods ie: toast, crackers, and rice Help your child go to sleep; sleep will often help empty the stomach and relieves the need to vomit Has signs of dehydration (no urine output for over 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying) Has blood in the vomited material Starts to act very sick Has abdominal pain lasting over 12 hours Has vomiting over 24 hours Is under 12 weeks of age and has vomited more than 2 times Seems confused or difficult to arouse Has ingested any TOXIC material call the poison center 1-800-222-1222 Has any other symptoms that are a concern Call Office if Child: Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

Thank you to our patient families who voted for our Minnetonka clinic. Thank You! A million thank yous to our patient families who voted for our Minnetonka clinic! For the past 8 years, you've voted for us being the best pediatric clinic in Lake Minnetonka magazine! We consider it a great honor to take care of your children. Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

We'll be closed on Sunday, April 9 for Easter. Closed on Easter! We'll be closed on Sunday, April 9 for Easter. Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

The mission of Wayzata Children’s Clinic is to provide the highest quality, evidence-based pediatric care, in the most compassionate and equitable way. Wayzata Children's Clinic offers professional, personalized healthcare or consultation for your child or adolescent in an environment that is friendly, family oriented, and supportive. We are a privately owned clinic that has provided health care services to patients from newborn to college age for over 50 years. What We Offer Same-day sick visits scheduled with a provider. * Due to increased demand, this service may not be available. * Registered nurses are available to answer your medical questions, offer home health care tips, and communicate with a provider for you. Care coordination through our registered nurses, whether it's one time or continued help, providing navigation and resources when needed. Newborn care. Lactation consultations. Well child exams. Behavioral and developmental evaluation. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) management. Management and treatment with adherence to National Guidelines and a streamlined process for medication refills, to ensure the best possible outcome for your child. Evaluation of acute illness and injury. Management of chronic diseases such as allergies and asthma. Free get acquainted visit for new families. Dental varnishing. Vaccines. Integrative medicine. Protect and Soothe program. Services Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

Fill out the form below to send us a message. Contact Us Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

At Wayzata Children's Clinic, we offer the resouces and education to inform you of the importance of childhood vaccines. Statement from our providers: We see all families who desire the highest quality medical care for their children. We educate all families about the importance of vaccines for the health of their child and the health of the community. Nearly all children in our practice are vaccinated completely and according to the recommended schedule. We firmly believe that vaccinating children and young adults may be the single most important health-promoting intervention that we provide as health care providers, and that you can provide as parents and caregivers. We firmly believe that vaccines are safe. We firmly believe in the effectiveness of vaccines to prevent serious illness and to save lives. At this time, we do not exclude children and adolescents from receiving care at our practice if their parents or caregivers decline some or all of the recommended vaccines. We recognize that the choice to vaccinate may be a very emotional one for some parents. We will do everything we can to educate families that vaccinating according to the schedule is the right thing to do. Please feel free to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about vaccines with any one of us. Vaccine and Lab Schedule Immunizations Age Immunizations Labs/Screenings 2 wks HBV (if not completed in hospital) 2 mos DTaP/IPV/HBV Hib PCV15 HBV Rotavirus (oral liquid) 4 mos DTaP/IPV/HBV Hib PCV15 Rotavirus (oral liquid) 6 mos DTaP/IPV/HBV Hib PCV15 Rotavirus (oral liquid) 9 mos Developmental Screening 12 mos MMR Varicella Hep A Hemoglobin (finger blood draw) Blood Lead (finger blood draw, if risk factors) 15 mos PCV15 Hib 18 mos DTaP Hep A Developmental Screening Autism Screening 2 yrs Blood Lead (finger blood draw, if risk factors) Autism Screening 2.5 years Developmental Screening 3 yrs Vision Screening 4 yrs MMRV DTaP/IPV Vision Screening Hearing Screening 5 yrs MMRV (if not given previously) DTaP/IPV (if not given previously) Vision Screening Hearing Screening 6 yrs MMRV (if not given previously) DTaP/IPV (if not given previously) Vision Screening Hearing Screening 7 - 8 yrs Vision Screening Hearing Screening 9 yrs Cholesterol (arm blood draw) Vision Screening Hearing Screening 10 yrs Cholesterol (arm blood draw, if not previously done) Vision Screening Hearing Screening 11 yrs Tdap MenA (Menveo) HPV Cholesterol (arm blood draw, if not previously done) Vision Screening Hearing Screening 12 yrs HPV Vision Screening Hearing Screening 13 - 15 yrs Vision Screening Hearing Screening 16 yrs MenA (Menveo) Vision Screening Hearing Screening 17 yrs MenB (Bexsero, if risk factors apply) Vision Screening Hearing Screening 18+ yrs MenB (Bexsero, if risk factors apply) HIV Screening (arm blood draw) HCV Screening (arm blood draw) Cholesterol Screening (arm blood draw) Vision Screening Hearing Screening Legend HAV Hepatitis A Info VIS Sheet Td Tetanus, Diphtheria Info VIS Sheet Men B Serogroup B meningococcal Info VIS Sheet Men ACWY Meningococcal conjugate Info VIS Sheet Tdap Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis Info VIS Sheet HPV Human Papillomavirus Info VIS Sheet Chickenpox Varicella Info VIS Sheet MMR Measles, Mumps, Rubella Info VIS Sheet Flu Influenza Info VIS Sheet RotaTeq Rotavirus Info VIS Sheet PCV13/15/23 Pneumococcal conjugate Info VIS Sheet IPV Polio Info VIS Sheet Hib Haemophilus influenzae type b Info VIS Sheet DTaP Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis Info VIS Sheet HBV Hepatitis B Info VIS Sheet Protect & Soothe Program Vaccines are an important way to protect children from illness. We understand that vaccines and blood draws can be scary for children, so we are happy to provide our Protect & Soothe Program. Read more about this program here. Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

The mission of Wayzata Children's Clinic is to provide the highest quality pediatric care and education in the most compassionate way possible. Services Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to customize this theme across your site. You can update and reuse text themes. Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to customize this theme across your site. You can update and reuse text themes. Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

Start your career with Wayzata Children's Clinic today! Wayzata Children's Clinic is an award-winning, pediatric clinic specializing in the ongoing health needs of newborns through college age. We provide care in a friendly, family-oriented, compassionate environment and are focused on building trust-based relationships. Our top priority is the health and well-being of our patients, and we strive to offer the highest quality pediatric care and patient education possible in the communities we live and work in. We are looking for highly skilled individuals who can provide professional, courteous, excellent, and efficient care to our patients and families. We offer rewarding opportunities for healthcare professionals looking for a long-term career. For over 50 years, our practice has been independently owned and governed by our physician owners. Benefits 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Disability insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Uniform allowance Careers Wayzata Children's Clinic is proud to provide Equal Employment Opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, disability, pregnancy, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable Federal, State or Local law. Wayzata Children's Clinic is committed to creating a culture and strives to include diversity, equity, and inclusion practices at the center of our daily work that align with our mission and values. We focus on fostering belonging and empowerment in the workplace and we listen and engage with our diverse communities. Contact HR Manager We Are Hiring! Pediatricians or Advanced Practice Practitioners : Contact our Human Resources Manager below. Pediatricians Current Staff Openings Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

For your convenience, you have the ability to schedule some appointments online. At this time, you may only book appointments online for wellness and established problem follow-up visits only. If you cannot make it to your appointment, please call us within 24 hours to avoid a late cancel fee. Please call one of our clinic locations to schedule if: You are a new patient. You need an appointment urgently. You need an appointment for illness or injury. You need to schedule a consult for a new problem or concern. You don't see a date or time on our online scheduling platform that works for you. Appointments If this is an emergency, dial 911 or visit your nearest emergency room. Book appointment now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

Whether by birth or adoption, the delivery of your infant will be a long-anticipated and emotion-filled experience. After your baby is born, the hospital will automatically notify us (if you designated us as your baby's pediatric office when you were admitted to the hospital). One of our pediatricians will examine your baby within 24 hours of delivery and again shortly before you go home. At these exams we will discuss some of the common transitions babies make in the first few days of life, and what to expect upon going home, including feedings, elimination, sleeping, visitors, and signs of problems. Remember to add your new baby to your insurance and your insurance card as soon as possible to avoid a lapse in coverage. Call the insurance directly (the number is on the back of your card) or contact your Human Resources Department (if insurance is employee chosen). After Discharge From the Hospital Our preventative well visit schedule begins with a Newborn Visit during the first week of life. Life will be full of changes, learning experiences, surprises, and "firsts," for both babies and parents. Listed below are some of the most common newborn health and care issues that come up in the first few weeks at home. While most babies are healthy, please call us if you feel you have a problem. Weight loss occurs in almost all newborns during the first week of life as they rid themselves of excess fluids. A 5-10% loss is considered normal, and babies are usually back to birth weight by the two-week visit. After that, most babies gain ½ to 1 ounce a day for several months. Sleep will vary considerably. Some babies sleep 20 or more hours a day and waken only for a feeding. Others are awake every hour or so, including through the night! It is recommended that all infants be placed on their backs for sleep. Some sleeping babies gasp, snort, groan and occasionally even pause their breathing while they sleep. It's all normal. Jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin caused by the build-up of "bilirubin" in the blood and fat tissues. Bilirubin is the normal result of the breakdown of red blood cells (we all have bilirubin in our bodies). Because there is so much bilirubin produced in the first few days of life (from the birth, bruising, etc.), sometimes it temporarily accumulates in the skin until the liver can break it up and help the body eliminate it. The most common time babies develop jaundice is 2-5 days after delivery. This is rarely a problem, but if you notice your baby becoming quite yellow (or "orange") and lethargic, contact us at the office. The best way to prevent jaundice is frequent feedings (every 2-3 hours) to help your baby have more stools (which is one way the body excretes bilirubin). Mild jaundice can be helped by exposing a baby to window sunlight. Newborn rash or "Erythema Toxicum" is a common rash seen in the first week or two of life. It is a widely scattered rash that consists of red raised spots with whitish centers (resembling "flea bites"). The rash has no symptoms, and no one knows why babies get it, but it usually goes away on its own by the time a baby is two weeks old. Infantile (neonatal) acne is another type of skin rash that usually shows up when a baby is two to six weeks old and is due to the stimulation of the body's oil glands by maternal hormones during the pregnancy. This appears as pink raised "pimples" and can develop anywhere on the body, but most commonly on the face, chest and upper back. Some babies get only a few pimples, while others get covered from head to toe. No treatment is needed nor recommended unless the pimples begin to look infected (increasing redness or fluid-filled pustules). Infant acne does not indicate the future presence nor severity of adolescent acne. Infant breast enlargement is normal regardless of gender and is caused by pregnancy-related hormones. Sometimes a thin white discharge may be present at the nipple. Observation is all that is needed and this should clear within a few weeks. Infant female bloody spotting, or "pseudomenstruation" is the name of the blood tinged vaginal discharge caused by maternal estrogen's effect on a baby girl's vagina and uterus. It is totally normal, and may occur on and off for the first month. Hiccoughs, sneezing, chin quivering, sudden jerking movements and random eye crossing are all normal newborn behaviors and do not mean something is wrong. A newborn's nervous system is very immature and is not used to having to coordinate all those new reflexes. Umbilical cord care usually involves observation alone. Some people still prefer to clean the base of the cord 1-2 times a day with rubbing alcohol, but avoid cleaning too frequently, as this can irritate the skin and delay cord separation. A little bleeding a few days before and after the cord falls off is normal. Dry skin is normal and varies in all newborns. Some get just a little patchy dryness, while others have peeling, flaky, cracked skin all over their bodies. With the exception of extreme cases, lotions are usually not needed nor are they helpful. The dryness will resolve into smooth "baby" skin at about the same time the oil glands mature and erupt (age 2-6 weeks). Circumcision remains a subject of controversy and opinion. There is no overwhelming evidence that supports whether a child should or should not be circumcised, so the decision is left to the parents. If the decision is to circumcise, take care of the freshly circumcised penis by gently washing away debris with warm water. Follow with an application of petroleum jelly and a fresh gauze pad (to prevent the diaper from sticking to the healing site) until there is no more drainage on the gauze pads. Most circumcisions are healed and well-protected within 2-3 days. If the decision is to remain uncircumcised, the care of the foreskin consists of gently removing accumulated secretions with a soft cloth during bath time. It is not necessary to vigorously retract the foreskin during infancy; it will gradually separate over time and eventually become fully retractable. When this occurs, your son can be taught to clean this area on his own. Bathing is initially done with a washcloth or sponge and the baby laying on a towel. When the cord falls off and there is no more drainage from the cord area, bathing your baby is a small tub or sink is fine (remember to put a non-slip pad or washcloth on the bottom of the tub for safety). Most babies need only 1-2 baths a week, as parents clean the dirty areas frequently anyway (around the mouth, nose, neck, and diaper area). Avoid soap on the face, and use it sparingly on the scalp and body (unscented mild soaps are the least irritating and drying). Healthy ears are self-cleaning, and cotton-swabs are never recommended. Baby powder is also not recommended because of the risk of inhalation of the talc and subsequent lung irritation. Room temperature should be determined by what is comfortable for you (68-72 degrees is average), and we advise dressing your baby appropriate for the conditions. For example, if you like your house on the cooler side, an extra undershirt for baby is a good idea. Resist the urge to overbundle. If you take your baby outside (even if only from the house to the car), protect her from the elements (wind, cold, heat, sun, rain, blowing dirt/sand) with a lightweight blanket over her infant carrier. Visitors and outings really need to be limited in your baby's first few weeks of life. This is very difficult for most parents, as the adrenaline is pumping and you are so excited to show your baby to the world. But, having too many visitors to your house or taking your baby to someone else's house is surprisingly exhausting, for parents and babies. Plus, this immediate and often uncontrolled exposure to illness (illness that we adults consider mild and routine) can be serious to a newborn. Remember (and remind visitors) to wash your hands frequently, and always before touching or picking up your baby. Crying is a baby's way of communicating, and does not necessarily mean that the baby is angry. All babies cry, some much more than others. Eventually you will get to know your own baby's cries and be able to distinguish between the "feed me," "change me," "dress me," "hold me," and "leave me alone" cries. Each baby has a separate personality and temperament, which is often what determines how a baby will respond to changes or stimulation. Some babies are very mellow and barely squeak when really hungry. Other babies go into a full cry when their arms accidentally sneak out of the blanket a little. If you feel that your baby is crying inconsolably for more than an hour or two, or longer than you feel comfortable with, please call us. Familiarize yourself with Shaken Baby Syndrome and know who you would call for help if you needed a break from your baby's crying. Pacifiers and thumbs are topics sure to stimulate intense conversation with friends and relatives! In general, all babies need to suck to console themselves; they have no other way to calm down. To deprive a baby of this natural sucking need will deprive him or her of a natural reflex and will likely lead to fussiness. Some babies are very "oral," while others really only suck when feeding. There are certainly advantages and disadvantages of both the pacifier and thumb for these oral babies. Early on, babies usually cannot hold anything in the mouth without help (the pacifier pops right out, or the thumb gets yanked away when the baby startles). If the baby is breastfeeding, and is having a hard time getting the hang of it, pacifiers and bottles are not recommended until the nursing improves. When the sucking strength improves, the thumb is handy because it's always there (especially in the middle of the night). But, pacifiers can eventually be thrown away. Once teeth start coming in, both the pacifier and to a greater extent the thumbsucking can cause displacement of the teeth and an increase to the arch (roof) of the mouth. Newborn Health Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

Casual Provider Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Morgan Abens DNP-PC Biography Morgan was born and raised in northern Idaho and received her Bachelor of Science in nursing degree at Lewis-Clark State College in 2017. After graduating, she moved to Minnesota where she worked for several years at North Memorial Medical Center as a bedside nurse and at Lion’s Children’s Hearing and ENT as an RN Care Coordinator. While working, Morgan attended the University of Minnesota, where she graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in 2021, specializing as a pediatric nurse practitioner in primary care with a certification in disability policy and services. Morgan joined Wayzata Children’s in 2021 and is excited to partner with parents as they strive to raise healthy and joyful children. Her specific clinical interests include newborn care, pediatric oncology, blood disorders, ENT concerns, and the preschool years. Morgan and her husband live in Mound near their large extended family, and are currently working to grow their own family through adoption. Outside of work she enjoys playing volleyball, visiting family, playing piano, trying new restaurants, and playing hide-and-go-seek with her plethora of nieces and nephews. Back to Providers

4 months Nutrition Breast milk and/or iron-fortified formula are still your baby's main food sources. Most babies nurse 4-6 times a day or take 20-36 ounces of formula. Solid foods (if desired) supplement, but do not replace, milk. Babies often give clues as to their need to start solids (see our handout on "Starting Solids"). Your baby should be able to sit with support and keep her head steady enough to be able to spoon feed. Solid foods should not be started arbitrarily based on weight or age. Wellness Visits Finally, the majority of babies are sleeping 8-12 hours at night, and taking 2-3 naps. It is recommended to always place infants on their backs for sleeping. Putting your baby in her crib for all naps and bedtimes will help her learn the skill of falling asleep alone. This makes it easier for her to do this in the middle of the night should she start waking. Sleep Starting solids will affect the color, consistency, odor, and frequency of stools. Breast-fed infants often have thicker less-frequent stools. Elimination Car seat: Make sure your baby's car seat still fits her appropriately (babies often need to advance to the next car seat size when they reach 20 pounds) and is in good shape. For the best protection, keep your infant in the center back seat of the car and facing backward until she is 1 year of age and 20 pounds. All children should ride in the back seat until they are 12 years old. Like seatbelts, car seats only work when used correctly and consistently. Life-preservers: Minnesota State Law requires all children under the age of 10 to wear a life-preserver when on any private boat. Find one that fits well. Falls: This is the most common age for babies to roll off beds, couches, and changing tables. Make sure safety straps are intact and applied correctly, or the crib rails up, if you need to walk away from your baby. Taking into consideration siblings and pets, the floor is often a safe place for a baby, and also enhances development. Grabbing and choking: Everything a four month old baby can get her hands around goes straight to the mouth. Watch out for jewelry, eye-glasses, tablecloths, coffee cups, small pieces of food, toys with detachable parts, coins, loose buttons (on your clothes and hers), hot or sharp items, etc. Anything that can fit inside an infant's mouth is a potential choking hazard. Use a playpen as an island of safety during times when your attention is needed elsewhere, but avoid using it for long periods of time. Your baby does need the opportunity to safely explore her world. Remember, if your baby is crying a lot put her in a safe place and take a break. Call someone to help you or call the Parent Warmline (612-813-6336). If you continue to feel frustrated or feel you could harm your baby, call Crisis Connection (612-379-6363) or Minneapolis Crisis Nursery (763-591-0100). Safety The four-month age is thought to be the most social of the first year of life. Your child will often smile and coo at anyone, including doctors and nurse practitioners! Siblings often think babies are more "fun" now, as they can get the baby to respond to actions and talking. We encourage parents to evaluate their own personal time needs and arrange to have those needs met. Family Adjustments Please let us know of any side effects other than a low-grade fever or local tenderness at the injection site. Your baby's next regular health care visit will be at age SIX MONTHS. By then she will be on the edge of mobility, getting more specific at grabbing things, babbling more, and possibly getting a little cautious of strangers. We will discuss advancing solid foods at that time. The scheduled vaccines are the third DTaP, Hib, IPV, PCV7, HBV and oral Rotavirus. The Influenza vaccine is also encouraged for all children ages 6-23 months (depending on the time of year). Please try to be at least 10 minutes early for all scheduled well-child visits. Aim to be human, not perfect, in your parenting. Immunizations Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now