HealthPartners - Preparing for childbirth

Initial Procedures Your baby may undergo several routine procedures, screening tests, and treatments before you both go home. Some will be done right after birth, while others will be done closer to discharge. Talk to your health care provider if you have questions about any routine tests or procedures.

IDENTIFICATION AND SECURITY Most hospitals use a 4-band system with a number or barcode to identify your newborn and keep them safe in the hospital. One bracelet will be placed on your wrist, two on your baby

(ankle and wrist), and one on another person you choose. Some hospitals use ID tags with a computer chip or radio frequency identification (RFID) chip for added security. Many hospitals also use tamper-resistant alarms with embedded technology to help keep your baby safe. No matter what type of ID is used, never give your baby to someone you don’t know. Hospital personnel will have proper identification and it’s OK to ask to see it. Health Screening Babies are routinely tested shortly after birth to see if they have any medical conditions that are treatable but not immediately apparent. Every state has screening requirements, although they may mandate different tests.

METABOLIC SCREENING Metabolic screening involves testing your baby for severe developmental, genetic, or other metabolic disorders. If found early, many of these rare conditions can be

EYE TREATMENT Health organizations recommend that all newborns receive eye treatment to protect them from infection. This involves placing a small amount of antibiotic ointment (such as erythromycin) in a newborn’s eyes shortly after birth to kill or weaken any bacteria. Some states have laws that require this treatment, while others leave the decision up to the parents. VITAMIN K Vitamin K helps with blood clotting. Because babies are born with only a small amount of vitamin K, they are at risk for vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB). Bleeding can develop spontaneously from an unknown cause, or there may be an underlying disorder that causes it. A baby may receive a vitamin K injection soon after birth. Some parents prefer that their baby receive this injection while holding them skin-to-skin or during breastfeeding to minimize any pain.

treated before they cause serious health problems. Some disorders are more common in certain states, making this type of screening even more important. About the test • A technician takes a few drops of blood from your baby’s heel • Usually done on discharge day but no more than 2 to 3 days after birth • Sample is sent to a lab for testing • Let the hospital and baby’s provider know how to reach you with test results

84 Your Guide to Labor and Birth