Examination of the Newborn

Course Overview

This course aims to provide the skills and knowledge required to undertake the neonatal discharge examination of newborn babies. It provides special skills development for midwives who, intend to give holistic, midwifery led care and adopts a multi-professional approach both in its delivery and assessment. A good degree of assertiveness and organisational skills will be required. This is a 30-credit module that is predominantly practice based. You will learn the skills and knowledge that are required to undertake the neonatal discharge examination of newborn babies. Midwives undertaking the module will be taught in clinical practice by Consultant / Registrar paediatricians /neonatologists and skills development will be further supported by lecturers from the University and Trust-based NIPE practitioners.  

Learning outcomes

    1. Critically evaluate, synthesise and systematically apply the evidence underpinning neonatal anatomy and physiology relevant to the physical examination of the newborn baby and neonatal resuscitation. 2. Critically evaluate the effectiveness of local / national guidance and standards that relate to the physical examination of the newborn, health promotion and their relevance to the professional and legal responsibilities of the midwife. 3. Critically analyse the theories underpinning neonatal behaviour. 4. Critically analyse the factors that impact on perinatal morbidity and mortality. 5. Critically analyse the psychological perspectives relating to parent−baby interaction and attachment.   Skills and Attributes:  1. Undertake a systematic identification of the relevant factors within the medical history, antenatal and intrapartum periods prior to conducting a comprehensive physical examination of the newborn baby whilst demonstrating the ability to exercise initiative and personal responsibility in professional practice. 2. Demonstrate appropriate and effective communication skills with parents, family members and professional colleagues in relation to the present condition, future development and any referral needs of the newborn even in complex situations. 3. Discuss appropriate information regarding health promotion and supportive strategies in relation to the future health of the newborn baby in partnership with the woman and her family. 4. Demonstrate awareness of the ethical, cultural, religious and psychosocial issues which impact upon neonatal care and facilitate a supportive environment in which women can explore their feelings and anxieties.   What our students say: “Honed my skills, knowledge and confidence in examining a newborn”                       “Excellent tutors/teachers”  

Assessment

  There are two parts to the assessment: A written element worth 100% of the mark A pass/fail practice-based logbook