Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: MONDAY, August 7, 1995                   TAG: 9508070096
SECTION: EXTRA                    PAGE: 3   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

WHAT PARENTS CAN EXPECT FROM A CHILD'S SCHOOL PHYSICAL

Most annual school physicals are routine. But for children entering school for the first time - or those who live in areas where there is a high risk of certain diseases - the routine physical may take a different form.

Most schools accept physical examinations done yearly on children's birthdays. Or camp and school physicals may be undertaken at the same time.

Camps and schools often want similar assurances: that children's vaccinations are up-to-date and that they do not have contagious conditions.

The annual physical examination generally includes measurement of children's height, weight and blood pressure; examination of the ears, nose and throat; and a stethoscope checkup of the hearts and lungs. In some cases, a neurological examination may also be done.

Children entering school for the first time at 5 years of age can expect to have their hearing and vision tested.

They also generally receive booster vaccinations against polio and diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus.

Some additional screening and vaccinations may be required for children who live in urban centers, such as New York.

Because of where they live, these children are often considered at high risk for such health problems as measles, lead poisoning and tuberculosis.

These children are often given booster shots for measles, mumps and rubella at about 5 years old.

In contrast, in areas where the risk is not considered as great, this vaccination may not be given until children are 11 or 12 years old.

Doctors also take blood samples to screen for lead poisoning at the entering school physical. This test may be repeated each year until the age of 6 years.

For children in high risk areas, screening for tuberculosis can be expected every one to two years.

The emotional readiness of children for school is another aspect of development that the doctor may want to discuss with the parents.

The doctor may observe children in the office and discuss with the parents how they are doing in terms of speech and interaction with others.

Some children are at the proper age but are not emotionally ready for kindergarten. In these cases, doctors may suggest waiting a year before starting school or keeping the child in kindergarten for two years.

The extra year may help children get used to being in school and interacting with their peers.

Finally, if any problems arise during the school year, screening tests may be repeated at the next physical.

For example, children who have had multiple ear infections over the course of a year may repeat the screening test at the next school physical to be sure that their hearing has remained normal.