This program focuses on the New Ballard Gestational Age Assessment. In the process of this discussion, both the assessment of neuromuscular maturity and that of physical maturity are examined. As the infant is assessed, reference is made to the system developed by Dr. Jeanne Ballard. The program concludes with a presentation of 13 newborn reflexes.

After completing this course, the learner should be able to:

Series Overview

Newborns have unique anatomy and physiologic characteristics that need to be assessed at birth. Nurses with limited or no experience in the obstetrical environment need to be made aware of these unique characteristics in order to perform a competent evaluation of a newborn's health.

This series provides nurses with the information they need and demonstrates the skills necessary, to perform a comprehensive assessment of the newborn child.

The programs in this series are:

This series is designated for a total of 5 contact hours of continuing nursing education.