Clinical examination remains the
most effective way to assess neonatal
neurological status. The pioneer work
of Thomas et al in the 1960s focused on
a more classical neurological examination
that emphasized active tone, passive
tone, and primitive reflexes.9
Prechtl and Beintema10
and AmielTison11
subsequently designed neurological
scales using the data of Thomas
et al9
to assess neonatal maturity. With
the introduction of the Brazelton Neonatal
Behavioral Assessment Scale
(BNBAS) in 1973, however, the focus
shifted to a more behavioral orientation
that emphasized sensory processing and
interactive responses.12
As interest in
early identification of developmental
problems grew, new neonatal assessment
scales emerged that combined
both behavioral and neurological approaches.