My Teen's 17 Year Visit

Physical Exam and Immunizations

Senior Year is Here!

It’s hard to believe your child is in their senior year of high school and is considering colleges and trade schools. Before they transition to adulthood, scheduling an appointment with your child’s pediatrician is important. This appointment gives parents an excellent opportunity to discuss any concerns they might have regarding academics, activity levels, or mental health. We’ll cover a variety of topics to ensure your child is staying on track.

Physical Screening

During the physical screening, your pediatrician will check your child’s height, weight, vision, and blood pressure. We’ll also discuss eating, sleeping, and physical activity. Your pediatrician will also order any tests they feel are appropriate, including testing for anemia, high cholesterol, or STDs at this age.

Emotional Wellness

Your child’s mental health is an important aspect of their overall health. Stressors, including academic pressure, future college plans, peer pressure, and lack of sleep, make your teen more vulnerable to depression. We’ll discuss your child’s emotional well-being and any challenges they might be facing so we can provide resources and guidance on how you can support your child.

Academic Progress

Your child can hold adult conversations but doesn’t always ask for clarification if they don’t understand something. They have strong organizational skills and a routine for their studying habits. We’ll discuss their academic progress, any challenges they may be facing in school, and any concerns they may have as they plan for their future.

Online Safety

Your teen is likely headed off to college soon and away from home, so they’ll be navigating the online world on their own. Discussions with your teen regarding online safety should be handled with more trust and open communication, so your guidance helps them trust their instincts to avoid scams and questionable situations. We’ll discuss technology use, cyberbullying, social media, and online safety.

Health and Nutrition

Well-balanced meals are still an important part of your teen’s day, and family meal times provide an excellent opportunity to connect. A nutrient-rich diet will provide strength, energy, and immunity. We’ll discuss your child’s diet and encourage a variety of fruits and vegetables and regular exercise to promote healthy weight and good overall health.

Substance Abuse

While underage drinking and substance abuse may be widely accepted among high school-age teens, drugs, vaping, and alcohol can have a lasting impact on your child’s mind and body. We’ll discuss any substance abuse your child may come in contact with at home or school and provide guidance on handling the peer pressure that surrounds them.

Picture of Bellanca Wyers, FNP

Bellanca Wyers, FNP

Bellanca is board-certified in pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Milestones to Expect

  • As growth tapers off, they become less concerned about their bodies, as most teens are at adult height.
  • Begins planning for the future and making more long-term goals.
  • Becomes more self-reliant and comfortable with their parents.  
  • Craves more adult social settings.
  • Values more committed relationships, are more empathetic, and has greater intimacy skills.
  • Has more vital coping skills for handling new situations and problems that arise.

Safety Reminders

  • Remind your child to always wear a seatbelt and to never text and drive.
  • Teach your child to stay safe online, including privacy settings, avoiding malicious websites, and using strong passwords.
  • Get to know your teen’s friends and their parents.
  • Teach your child the dangers and consequences of vaping, drinking, and using drugs.
  • Teach your child about the emotional and physical aspects of sexual intercourse; provide information regarding safe sex, consent, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Medicine Dosages

WEIGHT 72-95 lbs 96+ lbs
Children’s Acetaminophen
(160 mg / 5 mL)
Can be given every four hours.
15 mL 20 mL
Children’s Ibuprofen
(100 mg / 5 mL)
Can be given every six hours.
*Dosage for Infant Ibuprofen differs
15 mL 20 mL
Do not exceed more than 4 doses in 24 hours.

Vaccine Information Sheets

Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) are information sheets produced by the CDC that explain both the benefits and risks of a vaccine to vaccine recipients.

Influenza/Flu VIS

Covid-19 VIS

  1. Influenza/Flu
  2. Covid-19

Bright Futures

At your visit, we’ll provide a summary of what to expect at this stage of your child’s development, as well as in the upcoming weeks and months. This resource, known as Bright Futures, is available below for viewing or printing online.

It’s my son’s senior year in high school and he has a full school schedule, is playing football, and working part-time. He’s juggling a lot but is doing so well with everything. He usually comes to talk my ear off at eleven o’clock at night when I’m already in bed, but I’ll take it! It’s one of the best parts of my day.

When to Call Your Pediatrician

  • If your child has a fever.
  • If your child is vomiting or has diarrhea.
  • If your child is struggling to breathe.
  • If your child has any sort of abdominal pain.
  • If your child is depressed, self-harming, or having suicidal thoughts.
  • Any time you feel something is out of the ordinary.

From the Pediatric Blog

When the Pressure to Excel Gets Out of Hand

Support your teen in managing academic pressure by setting realistic goals and fostering balance in their life. Help them find their unique path, whether it’s college, a career, or another fulfilling direction.

The Importance of Adequate Sleep for Adolescents

Getting adequate sleep is of the utmost importance. Statistics show that adolescents are not getting enough of it. Lack of sleep can have serious consequences. Prioritizing sleep can improve daily activities and physical/emotional health.

For Teens: A Personal Guide for Managing Stress

Is your teen feeling overwhelmed? Learn how to manage stress in healthy ways and help them take control of their well-being.