Pediatricians must have basic computer skills, as lots of hospitals use digital records.

They must also have strong interpersonal skills, as most of their interaction is often with sick children and their (often worried) parents. This may be a high-stress position, so the ability to work in high-stress situations and handle unexpected issues and outcomes.

A typical day for a pediatrician may include appointments with sick children, conducting physicals to assess overall health, prescribing medicine, discussing treatment options with families, coordinating with other medical professionals for diagnosis, dealing with pediatric emergencies, and educating parents about their children’s illness and how to assist in the treatment process.

Most hospitals ask if you have a pediatrician when you go in to deliver. Your baby’s first examination may be with a hospital pediatrician or your chosen pediatrician. This depends on hospital policy and whether your pediatrician makes rounds at the hospital where you deliver. If a hospital pediatrician examines your baby, he or she will provide your pediatrician with the records from these exams.