Prior to traveling overseas to bring your child home some parental preparation should occur. In order to adequately care for your child, you first need to prepare for preventive care for yourself. The CDC web page has a wealth of information about vaccinations and safe food and water recommendations among other things. There are also a large number of Traveler's Clinics that make recommendations about preventative health issues. These clinics are usually associated with large teaching hospitals.

Medical issues that children might encounter should also be anticipated. Be prepared to care for a child that might have a cold, ear infection, diarrhea, vomiting, scabies or diaper rash. The children may react negatively to the new experience of leaving the orphanage. Language and cultural differences may also influence their behavior. Be prepared to deal with sleep, feeding and bathing issues as well.

Before leaving home an initial appointment should be made with the child's pediatrician to take place within the first 7 to 10 days of arriving home. During this appointment baselines for growth, behavior and development are obtained. Medical records are reviewed and diagnoses are confirmed or negated. Vision hearing and dental screenings are done. An infectious disease screening should take place for ALL children, even if the child looks good. Lab work, an infectious disease panel, should be obtained. This includes:

Hep B, Hep C, Syphilis, HIV, TB, skin test and screen for intestinal parasites.

Preparation prior to travel to pick up your child can be invaluable to assist the child and family with a smooth transition from the orphanage to the new home.

Cindy Sundman, RN, BSN