[Routine examination of the term newborn infant]

The routine examination of healthy term newborn infants on the postnatal ward has at least three goals: diagnosis of a primarily inapparent, yet severe disorder (e.g. acyanotic malformation of the heart), detection of minor, benign abnormalities (e.g. deformed feet) and minor birth lesions (e.g. cephalhematoma, clavicular fracture). Since such findings may cause concern, they are discussed with the parents. Many minor problems such as postural deformities are self limited or can be managed by the mother. A severe disease is detected only rarely. Certain findings should give rise to special investigations (e.g. preauricular tags--urinary tract malformation, hearing impairment).