Examination of the Newborn

Key information

Course Leader: Debbie Sharp

Level: 7

Credits: 30

Start date:

Mode of delivery: Blended Learning

Learner Hours: Scheduled Hours - 40, Independent Hours - 260

School: Health & Social Work

Available places: 40

Dates

• 25/01/2024

Fees and Funding

£1650.00

This price relates to self-funding students assessed as UK students for fee purposes. Prices may differ for students that are assessed as Overseas, or for returning students that are on a course leading to an award. Click here for Fees and Funding information or email us.

Entry Requirements

The module forms part of a broader CPD framework which can lead to the award of MSc Midwifery & Women's Health.

This course aims to provide the skills and knowledge required to undertake the neonatal discharge examination of newborn babies. It provides special skills development for midwives who, intend to give holistic, midwifery led care and adopts a multi-professional approach both in its delivery and assessment.  

This is a 30-credit module that is predominantly practice based. You will learn the skills and knowledge that are required to undertake the neonatal discharge examination of newborn babies. Midwives undertaking the module will be taught in clinical practice by Consultant / Registrar paediatricians /neonatologists and skills development will be further supported by lecturers from the University and Trust-based NIPE practitioners.  

Course content includes: 

Students will critically explore and evaluate the behavioural, psychological and physical attributes of the newborn infant.  

The full physical examination of the newborn is approached in a holistic manner, but particular emphasis will be given to the cardio-vascular and respiratory systems; the testes; eyes and hip stability. The use of contemporary evidence and local/national standards will be interrelated within the development of practice skills. 

1. Critically evaluate, synthesise and systematically apply the evidence underpinning neonatal anatomy and physiology relevant to the physical examination of the newborn baby.  

2. Critically evaluate the effectiveness of local / national guidance and standards that relate to the physical examination of the newborn, health promotion and their relevance to the professional and legal responsibilities of the midwife.  

3. Critically analyse the theories underpinning neonatal behaviour.  

4. Critically analyse the factors that impact on perinatal morbidity and mortality.  

5. Critically analyse the psychological perspectives relating to parent−baby interaction and attachment.  

Skills and Attributes:  

1. Undertake a systematic identification of the relevant factors within the medical history, antenatal and intrapartum periods. 

2.  Demonstrate the ability to exercise initiative and personal responsibility in professional practice.  

3. Demonstrate appropriate and effective communication skills with parents, family members and professional colleagues in relation to the present condition, future development and any referral needs of the newborn even in complex situations. 

4. Discuss appropriate information regarding health promotion and supportive strategies in relation to the future health of the newborn baby in partnership with the woman and her family.  

5. Demonstrate awareness of the ethical, cultural, religious and psychosocial issues which impact upon neonatal care and facilitate a supportive environment in which women can explore their feelings and anxieties.