The Comprehensive Newborn Exam

Source: Heather Collette and Jaideep Talwalkar; Yale School of Medicine

The newborn exam is important in establishing a baby's baseline health status as they enter the world. Newborn providers have the unique opportunity to evaluate a patient for the very first time. They are also tasked with identifying congenital anomalies that require early intervention to promote a long and healthy life for the child. Many newborn anomalies, such as heart defects, are noted on prenatal ultrasound. However, some anomalies are not apparent until the baby is born. A systematic approach ensures a complete newborn exam so that anomalies are not missed. 

If the baby is stable after birth, it is recommended to wait to examine them until they have spent at least 1 hour of skin-to-skin time with their mother. This regulates the baby's heart rate and breathing, promotes bonding, and establishes breastfeeding.