This program looks at the complete head to toe assessment of the newborn. It begins with a discussion of vital signs and continues with presentation of issues related to eye care. Weighing and measuring are examined including presentations of "normal" values. As the assessment continues, the trunk, umbilical cord, skin, extremities, genitalia and anus are discussed. The program concludes with a presentation of issues related to newborn screening such as phenylketonuria (PKU).

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.