How do you do a pediatric head to toe assessment?

The Order of a Head-to-Toe Assessment

General Status. Vital signs.
Head, Ears, Eyes, Nose, Throat. Observe color of lips and moistness.
Neck. Palpate lymph nodes.
Respiratory. Listen to lung sounds front and back.
Cardiac. Palpate the carotid and temporal pulses bilaterally.
Abdomen. Inspect abdomen.
Pulses.
Extremities.

How will you assess the head of a newborn?

Assessment of the Newborn When assessing the fontanelles, use the flat pads of your fingers to palpate (gently feel) the surface of the head. Ensure you make note of any retraction or bulging, as the normal fontanelle feels firm and flat (not sunken or bulging).

What are common expected newborn findings?

General Assessment. A detailed newborn examination should begin with general observation for normal and dysmorphic features. A term newborn should have pink skin, rest symmetrically with the arms and legs in flexion, cry vigorously when stimulated, and move all extremities equally.

What should you check on a newborn?

What to Expect

Check your baby’s weight, length, and head circumference and plot the measurements on a growth chart.
Ask questions, address any concerns, and offer advice on taking care of your baby: Feeding.
Do an exam with your baby undressed while you are present.
Do screening tests.
Give first immunizations.

What is the importance of newborn assessment?

Assessing a baby’s physical maturity is an important part of care. Maturity assessment is helpful in meeting a baby’s needs if the dates of a pregnancy are uncertain. For example, a very small baby may actually be more mature than it appears by size, and may need different care than a premature baby.

What is the purpose of a newborn assessment?

The purpose of newborn screening is to detect potentially fatal or disabling conditions in newborns as early as possible, often before the infant displays any signs or symptoms of a disease or condition.

What should newborn head feel like?

Your baby’s fontanelles should look flat against their head. They should not look swollen and bulging or sunken down into your child’s skull. When you gently run your fingers over the top of your child’s head, the soft spot should feel soft and flat with a slight downward curve.