Examination of the Newborn for Healthcare Practitioners
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| MIDW4004 | Midwifery | 4 | 20 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- MIDW4004
- School
- Midwifery
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
This course will enable students to further develop their knowledge and skills in relation to examination of the neonate and demonstrate competency in this examination. The content will include the theory and practice of a physical examination in relation to:
• Philosophy of screening;
• The head, including ophthalmic examination;
• Auscultation of the chest to include heart sounds;
• The abdomen, palpation of the femoral arteries;
• The hips and limbs;
• The external genitalia;
• Skin conditions.
The role of the healthcare practitioner in relation to competencies in new skills will be explored and the related professional issues analysed. Communication and health promotion will be focused around giving information to parents concerning the preparation, the examination and the information obtained from the examination. The importance of working within a inter-professional team will be evaluated.
Target Students
Students will be required to be registered midwives, nurses and health visitors and currently practicing in a relevant area.
Classes
Total student activity 200 hours Student/teacher contact 56 hours Practice days 30 hours Directed study 14 hours Self-directed study 100 hours A variety of teaching methods will be used ranging from lectures, seminars, workshops, specialist speakers as appropriate and practical simulation. This will be supported by blended learning.
Assessment
- 100% Coursework 1: A 3,000 word reflective essay.
- Practical: Students are required to undertake a minimum of 40 examinations and achieve competency in the examination of the newborn (20 direct supervision and 20 indirect supervision). Examinations are not graded and do not contribute to the overall module grade. Three of the direct supervision examinations must be assessed by an appropriately trained and practising Newborn and Infant Physical Examination examiner (doctor (paediatrician or GP), midwife, nurse or health visitor) and achieve a pass. The portfolio will be recorded and submitted electronically.
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
The course aims to enable registered midwives, nurses and health visitors to develop the knowledge and skills required to undertake the examination of the newborn and to demonstrate achievement of competency in undertaking this examination.Learning Outcomes
Compare normal and abnormal conditions that may present in the newborn.
Evaluate personal competency in the examination of the newborn.
Critically reflect upon professional and personal confidence in decision making and arranging appropriate referral.
Evaluate evidence based practice relating to the examination of the newborn.
Select, utilise and appraise the appropriate professional interpersonal skills in relation to the newborn infant physical examination.
Critically appraise appropriate communication skills within the inter-professional team and in giving information to parents concerning the preparation, examination and information obtained from the examination.