Newborn Babies - Physical Examination

A complete physical examination is an important part of newborn care. Each body system is carefully examined for signs of health and normal function. The physician also looks for any signs of illness or birth defects. Physical examination of a newborn often includes assessment of the following:

• vital signs:
  • temperature - able to maintain stable body temperature 98.6° F (37° C) in normal room environment
  • pulse - normally 120 to160 beats per minute
  • breathing rate - normally 30 to 60 breaths per minute
• general appearance - physical activity, tone, posture, and level of consciousness
• skin - color, texture, nails, presence of rashes
• head and neck:
  • appearance, shape, presence of moulding (shaping of the head from passage through the birth canal)
  • fontanels (the open "soft spots" between the bones of the baby's skull)
  • clavicles (bones across the upper chest)
• face - eyes, ears, nose, cheeks
• mouth - palate, tongue, throat
• lungs - breath sounds, breathing pattern
• heart sounds and femoral (in the groin) pulses
• abdomen - presence of masses or hernias
• genitals and anus - for open passage of urine and stool
• arms and legs - movement and development

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Disclaimer - This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. © 2009 Staywell Custom Communications.