DEVELOPMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF YOUNG CHILDERN 4

Developmental assessment of Young childern 4 (1+3)

Lesson 10:Scales used in neonatal assessment

The Neonatal behavioural assessment scale (NBAS) by Brazelton

The assessment of newborn infant is associated with Neonatal Behavioural Assessment Scale (NBAS). This scale gives importance to Newborn’s behavioural capabilities Individual differences. It was designed to measure interactive behavior- the infant’s available responses to his environment, the infant’s effect on the environment. The focus of assessment is to observe individual differences in behavior organization of full term infants. The new born is seen as an active and interactive, capable of shaping social interactions. It is suitable for infants aged 37 weeks to 44 weeks. Used to describe individual differences in new born behavior. It tests for neurological adequacy with 20 reflex measures. It has 28 behaviour items clustered in 7 areas of functioning – physiological, motor, state regulation, habituation, reflexes, social integration, state organization. It is used to study infants who are at risk and premature. To study the effects of drugs used by mother or pregnant woman on new born’s behavior.