Europe-wide comparison regarding the first medical examination of the newborn after birth: Absence of uniform standards.

Abstract

Introduction: The first medical examination of the newborn after birth plays an essential role in identifying congenital malformations and life-threatening conditions. Currently, no Europe-wide guidelines or standards for performing the first neonatal examination exist. It is unclear which professional group carries out this examination in different European countries. Additionally, there are no requirements for an examination accepted throughout Europe. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to identify the status quo of medical guidelines and legal requirements in place as well as to determine which profession carries out the first neonatal examination in European countries.

Methods: By means of a structured questionnaire, one expert survey at two international medical specialist conferences in Europe in 2019 were carried out. Participants were asked whether medical guidelines or legal requirements exist in their home country and which medical profession is recommended to perform the neonatal examination. Survey participants were delegates of national neonatal or perinatal societies. To verify statements, further neonatal experts at European level were contacted.

Results: A total of 51 participants from 35 countries in Europe were interviewed. Overall, 28 of 35 participating countries (80%) have published medical guidelines and 24 (69%) have legal requirements in place for the first neonatal examination. A wide range of professional groups (midwives, neonatologists, pediatricians, obstetricians, general practitioners, nurse practitioners and advanced neonatal nurse practitioners) performs the first neonatal exam. In 27 (77%) countries, midwives are the main group of examiners.

Conclusions: Currently a European patchwork of different medical guidelines and legal requirements in regard to the first medical examination of the newborn after birth exists. In addition, a variety of professional groups perform the first neonatal examination. There is great potential for standardization and an expert committee could establish common European guidelines in order to ensure the best possible neonatal care throughout Europe.