Newborn Screening
The first time I ever heard about this Newborn Screening test was almost 2 years ago during the birth of my first baby. I was approached by our OB then asking (or insisting) that we do the Newborn Screening test.
She explained what it is and what it’s for. I agreed.
What is newborn screening?
Newbrn screening is a simple procedure to find out if your baby has a congenital metabolic disorder that may lead to mental retardation or even death if left untreated.
Why is it important to have newborn screening?
Most babies with metabolic disorders look normal at bith. One will never know that the baby has the disorder util the signs and symptoms are manifested. By this time, irreversible consequences are already present.
When I newborn screening done?
Newborn screening is ideally done on the 48th – 72nd hour of life. However, it may also be done 24 hours from birth. Some disorders are not detedted if the test is done earlier thatn2 4hours.
How is newborn screening done?
Newborn screening is a simple procedure. Using the heel prick method, a few drops of blood are taken from the baby’s heel and blotted on a special absorbent filter card. The blood is dried for 4 hours and sent ot the Newborn Screening Center.
Who will collect th sample for newborn screening?
The blood sample for newborn screening may be collected by a trained physician, nurse, midwife or medical technologiest.
Where is newborn screening available?
Newborn screening is available in participaitn Newborn Screenign Facilities (hospitals, lying-ins, rural healt unit and health centers). If babies are delivered at home, they may be brought to the nearest Newborn Screenign Facility.
When are newborn screening results available?
Newborn screening results are available seven (7) working days from the time newborn screening samples are received at the Newborn Screening Centers. Parents should claim the Newborn Screening results from their physician or health practitioner.
A negative screen means that the newborn screening result is normal.
A positive screen means that the newborn must be brought back to his/her health practitioner for further testing.
What should be done when a baby has a positive Newborn Screening result?
Babies with positive results should be referred at once to a specialist for confirmatory testing and future management.
Consult http://www.nsrc-nih.org.ph for the list of specialists.
The info above are taken from a leaflet. I assume that these informations are intended to be known to everyone, hence I took the liberty of posting it here. If I violate any copyright or something, please drop a comment and I’ll take it off.
