Pediatrician Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ถ
pediatrician
[หpiหdiษหtrษชสษn ]
Definition
medical profession
A pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in the health and medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatricians monitor the growth and development of their patients, provide vaccinations, and diagnose and treat a variety of childhood diseases and conditions.
Synonyms
child specialist, children's doctor.
Examples of usage
- My pediatrician recommended regular check-ups.
- The pediatrician advised on nutrition for toddlers.
- After the illness, we visited our pediatrician for a follow-up.
- The pediatrician is an expert in childhood diseases.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Before the specialization of this profession, there were no specific doctors for children; regular physicians treated all ages.
- The first pediatric hospital was established in 1802 in Paris, named the Hรดpital des Enfants Malades, emphasizing the need for child-focused care.
Pop Culture
- Pediatricians often portray friendly, reassuring characters in movies and TV shows, helping to make healthcare seem less scary for kids.
- Notable figures like Dr. Benjamin Spock wrote influential books about child care, promoting pediatricians as vital resources for parents.
Science
- Pediatricians have specialized training to address health issues unique to children, such as growth, development, and childhood diseases.
- Advancements in pediatric healthcare have significantly increased childhood life expectancy over the last century.
Psychology
- Many pediatricians incorporate psychological wellness into their practice, understanding that mental health is crucial for a child's overall health.
- They often engage in developmental screening to assess behavior and emotional health, providing strategies to promote well-being.
Origin of 'pediatrician'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek words 'pais,' meaning child, and 'iatros,' meaning healer or physician.
- It first appeared in the late 19th century, reflecting a growing recognition of children's unique medical needs.
The word 'pediatrician' is derived from the Greek words 'pais' meaning 'child' and 'iatros' meaning 'physician' or 'healer'. The term began to be used in the early 20th century as the field of pediatrics developed as a distinct branch of medicine. Prior to this, children were typically treated by general practitioners or family doctors. The rise of the pediatric specialty is attributed to an increased understanding of child health and diseases. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, medical professionals recognized that children have different medical needs compared to adults, leading to the establishment of pediatric hospitals and the formal training of doctors in this area. Today, pediatricians play a vital role in ensuring the healthy development of children and addressing specific health issues that may arise during childhood.