The Newborn Assessment

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/newborn-assessment

Introduction

**Course Review: The Newborn Assessment on Coursera** **Overview:** The “Newborn Assessment” course on Coursera is an essential program designed for healthcare providers and anyone interested in the nuances of neonatal care. Having previously immersed yourself in the foundational medical interventions needed to care for newborns, this course takes a broader approach. You will delve into advanced techniques of newborn examination, focusing on physical assessments from head to toe. With a blend of theory and practical applications, this course aims to enhance your understanding of normal versus abnormal developmental indicators in newborns, equipping you with the skills necessary to ensure their well-being. **Course Syllabus Breakdown:** 1. **Newborn Exam: Assessment from Head to Toe:** The course begins with a critical exploration of the comprehensive newborn physical examination. Dr. Kohn expertly demonstrates how to conduct a thorough assessment on a newborn, highlighting the importance of recognizing what is considered "normal." This foundational knowledge is crucial, as it will equip you to identify deviations indicative of potential health issues. The emphasis on both the physical and developmental nuances of newborns sets a robust foundation for the rest of the course. 2. **Ensure Heart Health:** This module focuses on the critical task of identifying underlying congenital heart diseases in seemingly healthy newborns. You’ll learn about screening methods, physical examination techniques, and key indicators to suspect heart problems. This is vital knowledge for any healthcare provider, as early detection can significantly influence outcomes for infants. 3. **Ensure Lung Health:** Understanding the respiratory health of newborns is paramount. In this module, you will learn to identify normal respiratory findings, as well as how to recognize signs of respiratory distress. The inclusion of case studies enhances the learning experience, making it relatable and directly applicable to real-world clinical situations. 4. **Diagnose Common Illnesses in the First Month:** The first month of life is a particularly critical period, with a notable percentage of childhood mortality occurring during this time. This module underscores the importance of distinguishing between concerning symptoms requiring immediate medical attention and benign conditions that simply need reassurance. This differentiation is essential for any healthcare provider engaged in newborn care. 5. **Assess a Neonate for Common Skin Concerns:** Skin assessments can provide key insights into a newborn's health. This module covers the common rashes and lesions often encountered in the first month of life, reinforcing your ability to recognize serious conditions that require further intervention. By arming yourself with this knowledge, you’ll be able to provide more comprehensive care and advice to anxious parents. **Recommendation:** The “Newborn Assessment” course on Coursera is highly recommended for healthcare professionals, medical students, and anyone interested in neonatal healthcare. The blend of theoretical knowledge and practical assessment skills creates a comprehensive learning experience that is both engaging and applicable. The course is well-structured, progressive, and packed with invaluable information. Dr. Kohn’s expertise shines through in each module, making complex concepts accessible and relatable. With the skills acquired in this course, you will be better equipped to ensure the health and well-being of newborns, making a substantial difference in their lives during the most vulnerable stage of their development. In conclusion, if you are looking to deepen your knowledge and practical skills in neonatal assessments, enroll in "The Newborn Assessment" today. Your future patients will thank you!

Syllabus

Newborn Exam: Assessment from Head to Toe

In all of the modules up until this one, we have discussed abnormalities or illnesses of newborns. In order to understand and recognize what is not normal, it is worthwhile to be clear on what is normal. In this module, Dr. Kohn will demonstrate how to examine a very well newborn. Aside from the obvious size differences and the unbelievable cuteness of newborns relative to adults, there are the influences of fetal development and transition that impact the newborn exam. Keep in mind that your exam may be the first physical evaluation that this baby has in its life!

Our task as providers of health care to newborns is to detect which of the many seemingly well babies has an underlying health care problem that needs to be addressed. Previously, we reviewed the screening method that we use to look for critical congenital heart disease. In this module, we will cover the surveillance technique, that is, the physical findings that should make us suspect a newborn might have congenital heart disease.

In this module, we will first identify normal components of the respiratory exam. We will use this information to recognize “abnormal” respiratory exams in newborns, meaning recognition of physical exam findings consistent with respiratory distress. Then, we will use the information we learned about the respiratory exam to work through a case of a newborn with respiratory distress

Nearly 41% of children who die under the age of 5 are less than 28 days old. The first month of life is a particularly vulnerable time for these little ones. In this module, you will learn some signs or symptoms that are concerning in newborns in the first month of life, and that need medical attention. You will also learn some common findings that are concerning to parents, but not concerning medically. Those are conditions for which reassurance and/or watchful waiting is appropriate. Distinguishing between concerning and benign conditions will help you ensure the safety and health of newborn babies!

In this module, we will learn all about newborn skin. This module will cover the basic terminology to describe different skin conditions and will help you recognize the most common newborn rashes and lesions that present in the first month of life. This is also where we will cover a few of the “must not miss” skin diagnoses that require further management by a dermatologist or medical professional.