Care of the low risk neonate.

This assignment will be focusing on the care of the low risk neonate. It will be discussing the antepartum factors associated with low risk pregnancy and birth. It will also be looking at the neonatal examinations carried out by the midwife during the postnatal period and the detailed examination carried out at around 72 hours after birth. Screening tests for the neonate will also be explored which occur both during the antenatal and postnatal period. Advice that the midwife gives to the parents regarding safety, caring for the newborn and support options will also be covered.

A low risk antepartum period is defined by the National institute for clinical excellence (NICE) as an uncomplicated pregnancy which a woman can have care given by a Midwife or General Practitioner without the need to involve Obstetricians (2008). The amount a woman can expect to be seen by a Midwife depends on …(short extract)