The infant in the community: the first two months of life.

Community practitioners play a vital role in child health promotion. The first few months in an infant's life can be a very anxious period for parents. Minor issues, such as hydrocele and haemangiomas, can worry parents and reassurance is all that is required. However, at times community practitioners may be presented with major issues, such as congenital heart disease, inguinal hernias or cataracts and these can present a challenge. Knowledge about such conditions is necessary to make an appropriate referral. It is important that the six-to-eight-week infant review by the GP is performed as this is the last universal examination in children and is an opportunity for community practitioners to highlight their concerns. This article highlights the most commonly encountered health-related issues in infants in their first two months of life along with a discussion regarding early development. Some red flag signs are mentioned to help practitioners make a quick assessment and refer promptly.