The Well Baby Check
The well baby check is used shortly after birth and in the following months to ensure that newborns are healthy. During the exam, keep the keep the baby warm, and be opportunistic - examine difficult areas when the baby is settled.
The Patient
The Head
Head Circumference
Compare with circumference at birth
Head Shape / Molding
Symmetry, length, height
Face
Symmetry, palsy, macrosomia, facies
Scalp
Caput, cephalhaematoma, lacerations
Fontanelles
Soft, non-bulging, non-sunken
Sutures
Mobile
Ears
Position, size, shape, pits, tags
Eyes
Distance apart, red reflexes, sclera
Nose
Symmetry, nares
Mouth and Palate
Cleft / high arched palate, cysts, tongue tie
Jaw
Size, symmetry