The role of the CNM in newborn management

This article provides a review of the physical, neurologic, and gestational age assessment of the newborn. Examination techniques, normal findings, and common deviations from normal are included. Nurse-midwives do not always manage the care of the neonate beyond the first few weeks of life, but they are responsible for newborn screening, provision of anticipatory guidance, and referral. Common concerns of parents in the neonatal period are feeding, elimination, crying, and sleep patterns. In addition, the nurse-midwife should provide information about immunizations, accident prevention, and dental health.