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A thorough physical examination is an essential aspect of newborn care. This detled check-up allows healthcare professionals to assess each body system, identify signs of health and normal function, while also detecting any symptoms of illness or congenital anomalies. The physical evaluation of a newborn encompasses several critical components:
Vital Signs:
Body Temperature: Mntns a stable range from 97°F to 98.6°F 36.1°C to 37°C within the typical room environment.
Heart Rate: Beats at a normal rate between 120 and 160 times per minute; it can decrease significantly during sleep.
Respiratory Rate: Occurs approximately 40 to 60 breaths per minute on average.
Blood Pressure: Systolic pressure is usually between 60 and 80, while diastolic falls within the range of 30 to 45 mmHg.
Oxygen Saturation Levels: Typically remns steady at 95 to 100 when breathing normal room r.
General Appearance:
The infant's physical activity level, muscle tone, posture and alertness or state of wakefulness are evaluated.
Skin assessment includes coloration, texture, nl condition, presence of rashes or anomalies.
Head and Neck Examination:
Evaluation of the shape, size and molding patterns from birth canal passage is conducted.
Inspection of fontanelle soft spots between skull bones and clavicles across the upper chest area for any abnormalities.
Facial assessment covers eyes, ears, nose and cheeks. The red reflex in the infant's eye is also observed.
Mouth Evaluation:
Respiratory Assessment:
Breath sounds are checked to confirm adequacy and pattern; respiratory rate is measured.
Heart sound assessment as well as femoral pulse checks for any irregularities.
Abdominal Examination:
Genitalia and Anus Inspection:
Neurologic Assessment:
This process ensures a holistic understanding of the newborn's health status and can potentially identify early signs of any issues that may require medical intervention. The physical exam provides crucial information for healthcare providers to ensure the infant's well-being throughout their first days and beyond.
Medical Reviewer: Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP
Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Tracy C. Garrett RNC-NIC BSN
Date Last Reviewed: October 1, 2023
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DISEASES AND CONDITIONS
Birthmarks in Infants
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Vision, Hearing, and Speech Overview
Your Child's Growth and Development
Explore additional information about pediatric conditions:
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