A clinical assessment tool for midwives undertaking the Newborn Infant Physical Examination

The purpose of the Newborn and Infant Physical Examination (NIPE) is to identify and refer all children born with congenital abnormalities of the eyes, heart, hips, and testes, where these are detectable, within 72 hours of birth. A second physical examination is performed later to identify abnormalities that may become detectable by 6–8 weeks of age, thereby reducing morbidity and mortality. NIPE screening includes a holistic ‘top-to-toe’ physical examination of a newborn (UK National Screening Committee, 2008). Once the NIPE is completed, parents should be informed of the outcome of normality or any abnormality, including any explanation of the referral process if required. They should also be informed that the infant examination will be undertaken at 6–8 weeks of age, as some conditions can develop or become apparent later (Public Health England, 2016). The Public Health England standard (2016) clearly focuses on patient safety and the referral process. The UK National Screening Committee standards (2008), on the other hand, stipulate the practitioners' learning needs and clinical competency requirements. One could argue that both standards complement each other, but from an educator's standpoint the 2008 NIPE standards are more explicit in terms of training needs and competency requirements for NIPE trained professionals.