The normal newborn

Abstract

The neonatal period is a very sensitive and in respect to the later life of the individual extremely important phase of life. Disturbances of adaptation to extrauterine life, intrauterine disease and congenital malformations can and should be detected and treated properly by routine and regular examination of newborn infants. Otherwise, these diseases and malformations may cause unfavorable and painful sequelae for the related individual possibly lasting a life long. Therefore, it is imperative to distinguish transient and harmless findings from relevant pathological disturbances. Evaluation of the specific neonatal reflexes and motor reactions makes it possible to determine the gestational age, and in sick infants, they can be used to assess the medical and neurological status