The doctor usually gives the newborn a thorough physical examination within the first 24 hours of life. The examination begins with a series of measurements, including weight, length, and head circumference. The average weight at birth is 2.5kg, and the average length is 20 inches, although there is a wide range that is considered normal. Then the doctor examines the newborn’s skin, head and neck, heart and lungs, and abdomen and genitals and assesses the newborn’s nervous system and reflexes. Doctors also routinely do screening tests to detect problems they cannot see during the physical examination
