The initial exam of the newborn Flashcards
When we observe a newborn, what are we doing?
Watching their behaviour and listening to their sounds
What are we looking for on a well newborn’s face?
All features are present and symmetrical
What are we looking for on a well newborn’s head?
Lumps, swelling and abrasions on scalp
Fontanelles (anterior not bulging or sunken)
Suture lines between fontanelle not exceeding 1cm.
What are we looking for on a well newborn’s skin?
Blemishes, birth marks, rashes, bruises
What are we looking for in a well newborn’s eyes?
Open eyelids to ensure eyes in sockets
What are we looking for with a well newborn’s ears?
Their position, skin tags or creases
What are we looking for in a well newborn’s mouth?
Visualise and feel for patent palate, teeth, tongue-tie, cysts
What do we do with a newborn’s chin?
Extend it to observe skin integrity and movement
What are we looking for with a well newborn’s neck?
Exclude shortened or webbed necks. Should have no abnormal swellings or dimples.
Why do we check a newborn’s clavicle?
To check for fractures, especially if a shoulder dystocia
What are we checking the torso of a newborn for?
Skin tone varies, 2 nipples present and their position. Cord clamped and secure (re-check vessels – AVA)
Why do we check the genitalia?
To confirm gender post birth
How do we check a newborn’s spine?
Hold infant in ventral suspension position and run index finger slowly down spine.
What do we check for on a newborn’s spine?
Integrity of skin, uniformity of spine, absence of dimples or cysts and tone. (baby will attempt to raise head and legs in ventral suspension position)
