School Physicals

School physicals ensure your child is healthy and fit enough to participate in physical and mental activities alongside their peers. The providers at Ocean Urgent Care in Lawndale, California, perform head-to-toe school physicals for all children ages four and older. Call the clinic today or schedule a school physical online for your child.

What are school physicals?

A school physical is a comprehensive exam your child usually needs before participating in school activities or sports. The health evaluation screens for illnesses and injuries that can interfere with your child’s abilities to perform these activities. 

All incoming students must undergo a thorough physical exam within 90 days of starting a new school in California if they haven’t had one within 18 months prior. Ocean Urgent Care offers school and sports physicals for children and teens.

Why are school physicals important?

School physicals ensure the health and safety of your child and their peers. A physical exam can identify potentially serious health risks and medical concerns that may interfere with your child’s participation in school activities. If your child is interested in joining an after-school sports team, a physical assesses their fitness to play.

Physicals also serve as an opportunity to make healthy lifestyle changes. For example, if your child frequently feels tired and sluggish at school, the providers at Ocean Urgent Care may ask questions about their diet. Nutritional adjustments can help boost your child’s energy levels and help them focus at school.

What should I bring to my child’s school physical?

Coming prepared for your child’s school physical allows you to maximize your time at Ocean Urgent Care. When you arrive for your visit, you should bring:

• Your child’s vaccination records
• A list of medications your child takes
• An insurance card if you have insurance
• A copy of your child’s medical history

If you have any concerns about your child’s health or fitness, write down a list of questions to ask your provider.

What happens during school physicals?

How the providers conduct a school physical depends on your child’s age. First, the staff at Ocean Urgent Cares records your child’s height and weight, then checks their vitals (blood pressure, respiration rate, and temperature). Next, they take your child into the exam room.

The providers review your child’s medical history and ask about your family health history. They also inquire about any new symptoms your child has experienced. 

The physical portion of the exam is a head-to-toe screening. After checking inside your child’s ears, nose, and throat, their provider listens to their heart and lungs. They also palpate (touch) your child’s abdomen and test their reflexes and muscle strength.

After the exam is complete, they may order additional diagnostic labs, such as bloodwork, urinalysis, and lung function tests.

Call Ocean Urgent Care today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about school physicals.