The 6 to 8-week check

The ‘6-week check’ is a head-to-toe assessment that forms part of the newborn and infant physical examination (NIPE). This NHS screening programme comprises two stages: the neonatal component takes place within 72 hours of birth, usually before discharge home, and the infant examination is performed between 6 and 8 weeks of age, typically in the community by the GP. The NIPE aims to detect abnormalities of the eyes, heart, hips and testes, and to ensure appropriate follow up of positive findings. It also presents an opportunity for care providers to monitor a child’s general health and development, and to provide information, health promotion, and support to parents and carers. This article seeks to describe in more detail the background and purpose of the infant check, to provide a systematic approach for performing the examination with a focus on four key conditions and to recommend referral pathways for positive findings.