Summary ATI MATERNAL NEWBORN PROCTORED STUDY GUIDE

PHYSICAL ASSESSMENT OF NEWBORN FOLLOWING BIRTH Apgar scoring and a brief physical exam is done immediately following birth to rule out abnormalities. EQUIPMENT FOR NEWBORN ASSESSMENT Bulb syringe: Used for suctioning excess mucus from the mouth and nose. Stethoscope with a pediatric head: Used to evaluate heart rate, breath sounds, and bowel sounds. Axillary thermometer: Used to monitor temperature and prevent hypothermia. Rectal temperatures are avoided because they can injure the delicate rectal mucosa; an initial rectal temperature can be obtained to evaluate for anal abnormalities. Blood pressure cuff: Electronic method. Blood pressure can be done in all four extremities if evaluating the newborn for cardiac problems. Scale with protective cover in place: Scale should be at 0; weight should include pounds, ounces, and grams. Tape measure in centimeters: Measure from crown to heel of foot for length. Measure head circumference at greatest diameter (occipital to frontal). Measure chest circumference beginning at the nipple line, and abdominal circumference above the umbilicus.