Neuvola "Etiquette"

So in Canada when you take your children for their routine vaccines and check-ups (and if you're expecting) - you take them to the doctor.
Well, in Finland, you take them to your local Neuvola.  They are mostly staffed by nurses - but if you call them that - they're not technically considered "nurses" because of the different education programs required to obtain that "status and title".  A friend of mine is a "Health Care Provider" (or loosely translated to that) but I always think of them as nurses...they provide health advice, check blood pressure and provide vaccines....
You do and can see doctors at the Neuvola for your child and for you (during pregnancy and after you deliver) but it's not often.
Doctors can write your prescription and it would be best to make sure you have your previous copy of your prescription if you have it!

So when you enter a Neuvola - here's some things to keep in mind:

• Leave your strollers/prams outside.  The wheels carry a lot of germs and bacteria - so the Neuvola requests you leave them outside.
• You can bring in baby car seats or carrying bags for little babies.
• Remove your shoes and coat, and your child(s) as well.
• If for some reason you do not want to remove your foot wear (i.e. it's too hard or you have a sore back etc.) - there is usually some blue plastic slip-on covers and just make sure to dispose of them before you go.
• Disinfect your hands and your family's.  
• There's always somebody who is sick in the Neuvola - that's why they have it...so prevent your family from catching a cold and prevent yourself from spreading more cold-germs....
• If your Neuvola has a play area - remember, kids pick their nose, and stick their hands everywhere!  So make sure to wipe or disinfect little hands before you leave too!
• If you are pregnant - weigh yourself and remember the number (remember it's in kilograms!) to tell your nurse.
• As well, go to the bathroom and you do your own urine test (the pH level one with the white strips that change color).  If there's anything odd - then you tell your nurse when you get in to see them.
• When weighing a baby - as long as they don't give too much of a fight, they'll weigh your baby completely naked.  So be sure to bring a clean diaper...you'll probably need it.

That's all I can think of and I hope this helps!!