The practical nurse has a unique opportunity of closely observing and providing care for the newborn infant after delivery (see figure 8-1).
Because of the newborn infant’s helplessness, his needs must be met initially by nursing personnel.
Many nursing assessments and evaluations are conducted for the well-being of the infant. Nursing care does not stop with the newborn infant. Interaction with the parents is also important in the development of a family unit.
![8.01 Care of the Normal Newborn Infant - General 1 Figure 8-1. The newborn infant.](https://brooksidepress.org/ob_newborn_care_2/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Figure_8_1_The_newborn_infant_500-284x300.jpg)