Early Examination

On the first day, all babies should have a full clinical examination.

The examiner should have full knowledge of the perinatal history and relevant family and social history. No baby should be left in the sole care of its parents before having a full clinical examination. The examination should include:

• Weight + percentile
• Length + percentile
• Head circumference + percentile

A general examination including looking for dysmorphic features, checking for cardio-respiratory problems and checking the palate, hips, genitalia and anus. Eyes can be difficult to see soon after birth; if so, this should be noted for the later examination.

Late Examination

At the end of the first week (4-10 days) the check should include the following:

• Weight (relate to birth weight)
• Head circumference (relate to birth head circumference)
• Length (relate to birth length)
  
• Feeding
• Meconium passage in first day
• Vomiting (especially bile stained)
• Colour, especially Cyanosis & Jaundice
• Respiratory distress (including respiratory rate)
• Heart murmur. Femoral pulses
• Eye check: Eyes open; Pupil size, shape, equal and Cornea clear, Red Reflex.
• Hips
• Cord
• Tone and activity
  
• Newborn screening done