What is a pediatric specialist

Pediatric hospitalists are pediatricians who work primarily in the hospital . They are medical doctors who have at least 4 years of medical school and 3 years of  pediatric residency  training. They care for children in the hospital including the pediatric ward, labor and delivery, the newborn nursery, the emergency department, the neonatal intensive care unit, and the pediatric intensive care unit.

They work with your regular pediatrician and other physicians and providers involved in your child’s care. The pediatric hospitalist will inform  your pediatrician if there is a significant change in your child’s condition. When your child leaves the hospital, the pediatric hospitalist will give your pediatrician an overview on your child’s hospital stay  and detailed instructions for any necessary further care.

What types of treatment do pediatric hospitalists provide.

These doctors care for children with a wide range of medical conditions  who require hospital care. Such medical care includes the following :

• Infectious illnesses of the blood, skin, lungs and kidneys
• Common pediatric illnesses like influenza and dehydration
• Respiratory illnesses like pneumonia and croup
• Recovery from injuries and surgeries
• Problems with chronic illnesses like diabetes and asthma
• Care of newborns

If your pediatrician suggests that your child receive care from a pediatric hospitalist,  you should be assured that your child will receive the same  quality of care provided by your pediatrician while in the hospital. The pediatric hospitalist will also work closely with your regular pediatrician to ensure appropriate follow up or long term care.