Courses for healthcare professionals: The six to eight week baby check - what’s included?
The 'six-week check' is part of the NHS Newborn and Infant Physical Examination (NIPE) programme. Along with the newborn examination, it’s a vital part of the 'Healthy Child Programme', the Department of Health guideline for promoting child health in the UK. Professional examination of babies should take place between 6-8 weeks of age and should include: · A review of their development · A physical examination · An opportunity to offer health promotion advice · The chance for parents to express any concerns What are the key points to look for? The main purpose of the six to eight week check is to detect: · Congenital heart disease · Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) · Any congenital cataracts · Undescended testes The core examination is set out in National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance 'Postnatal care up to 8 weeks after birth'. This should compri