Newborn Screening Guide for Parents

Most babies born in the United States are healthy, but there are some babies who may seem fine at birth that have a serious unseen disorder. If detected early, some of the problems, such as illness, developmental delay, poor growth or death can be prevented. After your baby is at least 24 hours old, the hospital will collect a small sample of blood from your baby’s heel. If your baby is born at home, it is important to make arrangements to have the screening done with your baby’s health care provider after 24 hours of age.   Abstract source