ABSTRACT
A considerable amount of information can be obtained prior to touching the infant. The newborn examination is a good screening test as early detection of abnormalities can allow treatment before an illness occurs. The examination should be carried out in the presence of the baby's mother. In girls the labia majora and minora should be seen. A white mucoid discharge is normal. Ortolani's manoeuvre attempts to relocate a dislocated hip. The hips are abducted with the hips and knees flexed. The thighs should be able to abduct until they are flat against the examination table. The clunk represents the passive reduction of the femoral head back into the acetabulum. The infant's eyes will spontaneously open if he/she is held upright and not disturbed too much. This examination should only take a few minutes; the documentation is important and forms a baseline for subsequent examinations.
