Assessment of the newborn, infants and children

INTRODUCTION Paediatric history taking and examination require some basic skills and the need to consider special attributes that differentiate children from adults (Box 22.1). When referring to children use the appropriate term, depending on their age (Table 22.1). Children’s ability to understand, communicate, express feelings, cooperate with clinical assessment, make decisions and participate in their healthcare is age dependent, and the role of the parent will vary accordingly. Therefore an individually tailored approach is required.