What are the Key Components of a Neonatal Clinical Examination?
A thorough neonatal clinical examination includes several key components:
General Appearance: Assess the newborn's color, tone, activity level, and any dysmorphic features. Vital Signs: Monitor heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, and blood pressure. Physical Examination: Perform a head-to-toe assessment, including inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation. Neurological Assessment: Evaluate reflexes, muscle tone, and alertness. Anthropometric Measurements: Measure weight, length, and head circumference to assess growth and development.
