In what position should a newborn be placed to properly assess the fontanelles?

The correct position for assessing the fontanelles in a newborn is to have the infant lying flat on its back. This position allows for optimal exposure and accessibility to the cranial area, facilitating a thorough examination of the soft spots, or fontanelles, on the head. The anterior fontanelle, located at the intersection of the frontal and parietal bones, is particularly important to assess for size, contour, and any signs of tension or bulging, which can indicate underlying issues such as increased intracranial pressure.

While other positions may allow for some degree of observation, they do not provide the same ease of access or accuracy when assessing the fontanelles. For instance, a sitting position could distort the shape of the head or limit visibility, while positioning the newborn on one side might obscure the fontanelles entirely. Holding the infant vertically in arms could also complicate the assessment, as it may not allow for a clear view of the head without potential obstruction or movement. Thus, lying flat on the back is the most effective and appropriate way to accurately evaluate the fontanelles in newborns.