1. Summary of Three Key Checkups Within the First Month
According to care guidelines, infants require specific examinations at 5 minutes, one week, and one month post-birth. To simplify recall, parents should remember the numbers 1, 7, and 28.
Alternatively, parents can try memorizing using the following chart and number combination. Take a photo of the chart and numbers with your phone—this way, you'll never forget which checkup to schedule for your baby, no matter where you go. You can even memorize it like a vocabulary list for studying!
2.Day 1: Immediate Examinations
Number "1": Immediate postnatal examinations
Number 1 represents examinations conducted immediately after birth. This critical assessment determines whether the baby's physiological indicators are normal and if incubator care is needed. It is key to ruling out genetic disorders and congenital conditions. For newborn evaluations, we use the Apgar score system.For specific examination details, refer to the following diagram:
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3. Apgar Score Criteria for Day 1 Examination
The first three steps involve a general assessment of the infant's entire body, focusing on the head, chest, and ears. The subsequent three steps conduct more detailed examinations of the umbilical cord stump, anus, and oral cavity; these areas are all related to the baby's breathing.
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Apgar Score Criteria
After completing these eight major assessments, the Apgar score is calculated to determine if the baby meets healthy standards. Scores are categorized into three levels: "2 points," "1 point," and "0 points." If any item scores 0 points, the baby requires hospital observation.
Scoring Criteria/Item Skin Color Heart Rate Response to Stimulation Muscle Tone Breathing 2 points Rosy skin Strong heartbeat exceeding 100 beats per minute Cries and responds actively Normal alertness and muscle tone Good breathing, loud cry 1 point Blue-purple coloration at extremities,chest red, weak heartbeat below 100 bpm, distressed expression, only slight limb flexion, low muscle tone, weak irregular breathing, faint cry. 0 points: Whole body cyanotic, no heart sounds audible, no response to stimulation, limp infant with absent breathing. Note: Table created by Pacific Parenting Network.Typically, an Apgar score of 8-10 indicates normalcy; a score of 7 or below signifies mild asphyxia, which usually improves rapidly with airway clearance and oxygen therapy. A very low score of 3 or below indicates severe asphyxia, making this a crucial indicator for determining whether a newborn requires temperature-controlled care.
4.Day 7: One-Week Checkup
Number "7": One-week postnatal examination
By one week old, babies are usually ready for discharge. Before leaving the hospital, they undergo a comprehensive physical exam. This goes beyond basic palpation, auscultation, and observation; it includes a small blood sample to screen for congenital metabolic disorders.
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5. Day 28: One-Month Checkup
Number "28": One-month postnatal examination
At one month old, the baby undergoes their third physical examination. While the items checked are similar to previous visits, the assessment standards differ. Understanding these standards allows mothers to detect potential health issues early during the postpartum confinement period, ensuring timely treatment for the baby.