Locations
Office
Oskaloosa, IA
About
Bio
Dr. Dennis-Smithart, a native of Oskaloosa, is happy to be practicing in her hometown. Even as a child she knew that she wanted to be a physcian, hence her nickname, Dr. Dennis. At the University of Iowa she was a member of Phi Eta Sigma Phi Beta Kappa, graduating with a BS in General Science with Honors and High Distinction. She earned her MD at the U of Iowa College of Medicine, specialized in Pediatrics at the University of Iowa. She is a board certified pediatrician, and is honored take part in your child's healthcare.
SpecialtiesDoctors may have more than one area of specialty interest. Board certification in a specialty area means the doctor has completed formal training and has practice experience in that specialty, and has passed the certification examination from the corresponding accredited medical specialty board.
Doctors may have more than one area of specialty interest. Board certification in a specialty area means the doctor has completed formal training and has practice experience in that specialty, and has passed the certification examination from the corresponding accredited medical specialty board.
Pediatrics
Languages spoken
English
Doctor Q&A
341 Answers
33 Agrees
The number of answers this doctor has agreed with.
A member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Crib: Most hotels have cribs available for guests with infants. When you make reservations request a crib, or purchase a portable crib/playpen and bring it ... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
9 months: When baby begins to reach and hold things, he also puts them into his mouth. He may start finger feeding by 9 mo, using utensils by 12-15 months. Th... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Yes: It is normal for young infants, under 4 months of age, to periodically look cross-eyed. Older children should be promptly evaluated to rule out more ... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 36-year-old member asked:
I have a ventricular septal defect (vsd). is it dangerous, and will my baby have the same condition?
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Notify your doctors: Most vsds spontaneously close, or would have been repaired in childhood. If your vsd is still patent your cardiologist and OB should confer and deter... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 23-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
No: Breast feeding is the best thing that you can do to keep your baby healthy. If you catch a cold, the flu, or a bacterial infection your baby was prob... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Maternal and infant : Many factors may affect latching on. Mom may be engorged or her nipples flat, making it difficult to latch on. The baby must open wide enough to tak... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Yes: Your milk supply is dependent upon the frequency of nursing, and complete emptying of the breasts. I advise my breastfeeding moms to nurse every 1 1/... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Child can care for : I've seen young children with pierced ears whose earlobes have been torn during rough play with siblings. Metal allergies can be an issue, and if imp... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Pediatrician: Pediatricians feel very strongly that breast is best. They can provide lactation support for moms who are having difficulty, or refer you to a lactat... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 21-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Some: Those who are exposed to others with pinworms, for example, children in daycare. Those who put their fingers in their mouths, or have poor handwashin... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 39-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
In moderation: You can watch tv while nursing, but don't miss this very special time to interact with your baby. She will be gazing at you, and your face with be in... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 44-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
A consistent routine is essential. Get up, eat, and go to bed at the same time each day. Maintain the same schedule during the school year and summe... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 31-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Maybe: Assuming your child is growing and developing normally, and eats a diet full of fruits and vegetables, it may be normal for her to have 8 bms/day. Mo... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Be consistent : Set a consistent schedule. Arise, feed and go to bed at the same time. Develop a routine, following your child's lead. You will probably notice a t... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 23-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
No: Seasonal influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness characterized by fever, body aches, cough as the primary symptoms. Stomach flu, sometim... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 22-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Probably not: Pinworm eggs are so tiny they can slip under even short nails. The best prevention is good handwashing, keeping hands out of mouth, and treating the ... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 22-year-old male asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
< 1 years: Infants begin to associate words with objects within the first months of life. The more the parents speak to their baby, the more language the baby w... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 27-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
No; confirm first!: Discuss the reaction with your doctor and then make your decision. It's likely the reaction was not due to the vaccine. The polio vaccine side effec... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 30-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
None: Sweeteners are not necessary, and should be avoided. The natural sweetness of food is your goal. Children exposed to sweets and sweeteners crave mor... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 23-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Maybe: I would never suggest a turtle to an immunocompromised child. Even healthy children can get salmonella from handling their pet turtles. If you can b... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 38-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
No: How old is your child? When did you complete toilet training? Previously dry children, who begin having accidents are evaluated for many things-infe... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 38-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Don't think possible: Measles is a highly contagious and potentially serious infection, and public and private schools as well as colleges require proof of immunization to ... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 19-year-old female asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Many reasons: There are many hormonal factors that interrelate and result in breast, hair growth, and menses in women. It can be inadequate hormone release, end-or... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 65-year-old female asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
See Dr: Sores on the breast have multiple etiologies, but the most worrisome would be a form of breast cancer. Make an appointment today to see your doctor. ... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 38-year-old male asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Are these excuses?: You'll have to make the time. Prioritize time for the things that are important, healthy diet, regular exercise, social life, work , etc. Try gettin... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A female asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Talk with doctor: Head injury in an infant can be serious, and you should discuss what happened with your doctor. The doctor can help you determine the best course of ... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 45-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Three times : There are currently 3 circulating strains of influenza in the United States on the cdc website, so you could be infected three separate times this sea... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 43-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Red/pink eyes: Pink eye, or conjunctivitis is a common ailment, especially in children. The white of the eye (sclera) becomes bloodshot, the inner eyelids are red, ... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 19-year-old male asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Swallowing problem: I can't be specific without examing you, but my guess is that your sore throat is associated with swelling inthe back of your throat. The swelling de... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 47-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen is my 'go to'med for cramps, especially if it can be taken before your period starts. Other options, midol or acetominophen. Have you see... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Free clinic? : Some communities have free clinics, or clinics that charge a sliding fee based upon income. Call public health, ask what is available in your commun... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Feel miserable.: Fever, chills, cough, body aches, fatigue, congestion. Some vomiting/diarrhea, (influenza is not same as stomach flu). I've heard these descriptions... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 34-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Not always: Early in the course of pinkeye the white of the eye may not be red, but the lining of the lids will usually be red, there will be increased tears, and... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 47-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Hand wash, vaccine: Influenza is primarily spread via the respiratory route. If someone with the flu coughs, sneezes or gets nasal/oral secretions on items you touch, an... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 35-year-old female asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Not likely: Have you heard the expression, 'green around the gills'? It refers to a nauseated person's appearance most people have pallor and weakness when nause... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 29-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Envenomation: This is suspicious for bed bugs, but individuals may have different responses to the bites. Just a mosquito bite may be a pencil eraser sized bump or... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 41-year-old male asked:
My 10yo has mild asthma buy recently has been worsening requirng more frequent puffs, what can i do?
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
See the doctor: Worsening asthma symptoms, even when mild, require an office visit to properly adjust the medication. Asthma is categorized based upon the severity a... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 24-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
It feels good: Infants recongnize, very early that touching their genitals is pleasant . . . That's why so many little hands reach for the diaper area during diaper ... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 33-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Yes: Influenza can infect anyone. The illness can be very serious in people with underlying health conditions, but also in those who are vigorous and heal... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 28-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
It depends: Dogs, regardless of size, can be dangerous around children. Proper training, including bite inhibition is essential. Children must always be observe... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 41-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Reassurance: I concur with dr. Proffitt, but would like to reassure you that although disgusting, the maggot is unlikely to cause your child harm. The spoiling fo... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 30-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Not the vaccine: The vaccine didn't cause your symptoms. You likely have a viral infection, or strep throat. If symptoms don't improve call your dr for a strep scree... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 26-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Offer frequently: Offer the foods frequently-familiarity with foods increases the liklihood that he will eat them. Don't insist that they eat a portion, but encourage ... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 24-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Not sure: I'm not familiar with this product, can you list ingredients? Have you tried swaddling? White noise (radio static, vacuum noise)? Car rides often h... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 45-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Not from shot: The flu shot is made up killed virus, there is no way you can get influenza from the vaccine. People who claim they got the 'flu' are confused. Vomi... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 39-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Not in US: Avian, or bird flu, is not currently a threat in the us and do not normally infect humans, but sporadic human infections have occurred. H5n1 is a hig... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.4k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 35-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Maybe: If OB doesn't think you need them (anemia?), they aren't needed to produce good breast milk. Eat a nutritionally complete diet, include extra calcium.... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.9k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 31-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Delay: When you begin to crave something, tell yourself that you'll wait 10 minutes before you act upon it. During those 10 minutes, find something to occup... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 18-year-old female asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Call your doctor/ER: You need to see a doctor. This may be something serious. While it can be embarrassing to talk about private parts and bowel movements this is nothing... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 34-year-old member asked:
Dr. Ronda Dennis-Smithartanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Itching: We suspect pinworms when patients complain or, or are noticed, scratching their rectum. The pinworms are tiny white worms (about the size of a newspr... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsAnswered >2 years agoMerged
TestimonialsRecommendations and Thank you notes are endorsements given from patients or other doctors.
Recommendations and Thank you notes are endorsements given from patients or other doctors.
6
Recommendations
699
Thank you notes
Sep 16, 2013
Thanks for your contribution at Health Tap
Jan 27, 2013
Great responses, thorough, Impressive!
HealthTap member
Mar 30, 2015
Dr. Dennis-Smithart is an amazing doctor! #nationaldoctorsday2015 #virtualflower1
HealthTap member
Thank you, your answer was very helpful! Backs up what I found on Internet searches. Nice to have a professional opinion not just the Blogosphere.
HealthTap member
Thank you very much, I needed the contributing factors & how I can change it without medication - I am glad your help was more accurate!
HealthTap member
Thank You! wanted to know if it could be anything other than meningitis. he's been in/out of hosp. since he was 2wks & no improvement
Education & Training
Medical/Graduate school
The University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, IA
MD
Awards
Pediatric Recognition Award, (Referring Physician Award) Blank Children's Hospital, (outstanding contribution
Top Doctor, First Place, Iowa - Winter
2013
Most Influential, Third Place, Iowa - Winter
2013
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