HealthPartners - Taking care of you and your newborn

Newborn Screenings

Newborn screenings are done shortly after birth to test for medical conditions that may not be detected during a physical examination.

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METABOLIC SCREENING

How the Test is Done

Metabolic screening tests for genetic and metabolic disorders that may lead to developmental issues; however, newborn screening does not test for or detect developmental issues. If identified early, many of these rare conditions can be treated before they cause serious health problems. Each state requires screening, but the specific test done may vary. Some disorders are more common in some states, making these screenings even more important. Of every 1,000 babies born, it’s estimated that 1 to 3 will have serious hearing loss. It’s now standard practice to conduct hearing screening for newborns. If hearing loss is not caught early on, the hearing center in your baby’s brain won’t get enough stimulation. This can delay speech and other development in your newborn. HEARING SCREENING

A few drops of blood are taken from your baby’s heel. This is usually done after 24 hours old and no later than 2-3 days after birth. The sample is then sent to the lab for testing. Make sure the hospital and your baby’s health care provider have your contact information so you can be notified of the results.

How the Test is Done

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This test is painless and is performed in the hospital using a tiny earphone, microphone, or both. There are 2 types of hearing screening, otoacoustic (OAE) and auditory brainstem response (ABR). Testing takes about 10 minutes and is all done while your baby is sleeping.

PULSE OXIMETRY SCREENING FOR HEART DISEASE

How the Test is Done

Pulse oximetry is a simple, painless test that measures how much oxygen is in your baby’s blood. It’s done when your baby is more than 24 hours old. It’s useful in screening for some congenital heart diseases in newborns.

Sensors are placed on the baby’s hand and foot with a sticky strip and a small red light or probe. These sensors measure the baby’s oxygen level and pulse rate. The test takes a few minutes to perform while the baby is still, quiet, and warm. Jaundice is typically resolved with treatment. There are 2 types of treatment for jaundice. Phototherapy involves placing your baby under a special light wearing only a diaper and eye protection. Another treatment involves placing a fiberoptic blanket under your baby. Sometimes, the light and blanket are used together. Treatment

JAUNDICE

Jaundice is common in newborn babies, giving their skin and the whites of their eyes a yellow color. It is typically caused by a buildup of a substance called “ bilirubin ” in the baby’s blood and skin. The baby’s bilirubin level may be tested in one of two ways: • By a light meter placed on your baby's skin that calculates the bilirubin level. • By a blood sample taken from their heel that will measure the level of bilirubin in their blood serum. If the level is high after light meter testing, a blood test may be done to confirm the levels.

WARNING

Call your health care provider immediately if your baby: • Is very yellow

• Is not feeding 8 or more times in 24 hours • Does not make enough wet diapers or diapers with stool (see page 38)

• Is hard to wake up • Is very fussy or has a high-pitched cry

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20 Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care