This work provides a practical step-by-step guide for midwives and other practitioners concerned with neonatal examination of the newbrn infant. It encourages the reader to view each mother and baby as unique, taking into account their experiences preconceptually, antenatally and through childbirth. The text covers: normal foetal development; parent's concerns and how to respond to them; the events of labour and delivery; the clinical examination of the neonate; the identification and management of cognital abnormalities; and accountability and legal issues. The text is designed so that each chapter can be read independently and contains useful summaries, scenarios and appendices.

Table of Contents

In the beginning; foetal development - influential factors; assessment of foetal well-being in the antenatal period; risks to the foetus during childbirth; neonatal examination; abnormal findings and congenital abnormalities; accountability and effective care. Appendix: safe sleeping environment for baby; useful addresses.