Incorporating the Physical Examination of the
Newborn into the
Pre-registration Midwifery Programme
Lyn Dolby, Senior Lecturer: Midwifery Lead:
Examination of the Newborn
School of Health and Social Work, University of
Hertfordshire
Background
• Examination of the Newborn - an established
post registration module since 1994
• Discussion commenced in 2010 Directors of
Service and Education meeting
• Evaluation of the existing pre-registration
programme
• Collaboration with stakeholders to meet local
service demands
• Initial research:
Why some midwives chose to stop conducting the
examination of the newborn
Current Pre-registration Midwifery Programmes
• Validated Feb. 2012 – incorporating Examination of the
Newborn within both three year and 18 month programmes
• Alludes to the expectations of Midwifery 2020
• Aims to achieve the existing high standards of the post-reg.
module within the new pre-reg. modules
• Recognises the differing student/programme needs and the
impact on practice staff
• Increased number of trained academic staff
• Continuation of Practice staff updates
Point to Consider
UH Staff
preparation &
support
Curriculum
Planning
Equipment
Exam of the
Newborn &
family
centred care
Paediatric
support
Audit &
Research
Collaboration
with practice
partners
Student Learning & Assessment
• Student learning - practice based, underpinned
with on-line activities and classroom
workshops / key lectures
• Degree level modules across all three
programmes, plus both 18 month and postregistration students can access masters level
• Summative assessment – Professional
discussion (includes practical assessment)
Looking Ahead …
• On-going monitoring, evaluation and research
2 year study on the implications of integrating
this initiative on the student and NIPE practitioner
• Expansion of the Newborn Forum
References / Bibliography
• Clinical Negligence Scheme for Trusts (2010) Maternity Clinical Risk
Management Standards. London. NHS Litigation Authority. March
2010/11
• Department of Health (2009) The Healthy Child Programme.
Pregnancy and the First Five Years of Life. London. Department for
Children, Schools and Families
• Midwifery 2020 Programme (2010) Midwifery 2020: Delivering
Expectations. Available at: www.midwifery2020.org
• UK National Screening Committee (2008) Newborn and Infant
Physical Examinations: Standards & Competencies. National
Screening Committee.
March