The Normal Newborn: Clinical High-Yields
Understanding the physiological transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life is foundational for NEET PG pediatrics.
Part 1: Initial Assessment & Scoring
| Parameter | High-Yield Note |
|---|---|
| APGAR Score | Assessed at 1 and 5 minutes. Includes Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration. |
| Ballard Score | Used to estimate gestational age based on neuromuscular and physical maturity. |
Part 2: Common Physiological Findings
- Physiological Weight Loss: Normal to lose up to 10% of birth weight in the first week, regained by 10-14 days.
- Newborn Reflexes: The presence of Moro, Rooting, Suck, and Grasp reflexes indicates a neurologically intact newborn.
- Transition Stools: Meconium (first 24-48 hours) transitions to mustard-colored breast milk stools.
NEET PG Hint: Remember that an APGAR score < 7 at 5 minutes necessitates re-evaluation every 5 minutes up to 20 minutes. Always differentiate between Caput Succedaneum (crosses suture lines) and Cephalohematoma (does not cross suture lines).