creation date: 2026-05-13 19:28
tags: Assessments
Newborn Exam
Background
The newborn exam is done within 24 hours of birth to assess for the newborns transition into life. Similar exams are performed at subsequent visits, although components may not be as thoroughly assessed.
The exam here describes the components done by the physician. Some elements of the newborn screen (eg. blood tests, hearing test) are performed by other providers.
Examination
History
From the caregiver, enquire about:
- Feeding/latching
- Bowel movements (≥1 prior to discharge)
- Micturition (≥1 prior to discharge)
- Other concerns
In the clinic, enquire additionally about:
- Hearing test (ie. done in hospital, outside hospital)
- Jaundice
Physical Exam
In addition to a general inspection, the following should be a part of the examination. Parts are done opportunistically, but order described will be in order of likelihood of upsetting the infant.
- Auscultate the heart
- Auscultate the lungs
- Inspect, auscultate, and palpate the abdomen (incl. umbilical cord)
- Palpate the fontanelles (anterior, posterior)
- Inspect the ear position (1/3 above the eye line)
- Inspect ear for adhesions or protrusions
- Palpate the clavicles
If at any point, the infant wakes or begins crying:
8. Assess suck reflex
9. Palpate the palate
10. Inspect for a tongue tie
11. Assess plantar and palmar reflexes
12. Assess for red reflex
Removing the diaper:
12. Assess femoral pulses
13. Check genitalia
- Male: assess for hypospadias, undescended testes
Turn the infant over (or roll):
14. Inspect and palpate entire spine
15. Assess for sacral dimpling
Finally:
16. Assess Moro reflex