Newborn Screening Program

Early diagnoses that could prevent developmental delays

The goal of the Newborn Screening Program at Fountain Valley Regional Hospital and Medical Center is to detect health problems in newborns. The faster you find an issue, the earlier you can start treating it. This can help prevent developmental delays or other health concerns down the line. We provide your newborn’s initial screenings during your stay at the hospital. You will then see your pediatrician for a second screening when your baby is 7-14 days of age.

Newborn screening tests we offer

Newborn physical examination

Every child receives a physical exam after birth to check their eyes, heart, hips and more.

Hearing screening test

A hearing screening is provided soon after your baby is born. This helps identify babies that already have hearing loss.

Blood spot (heel prick) test

A small sample of your baby’s blood is taken and sent to a lab to be tested for nine health conditions. If the screening shows a possible health problem, you will need to take your baby in for a follow-up test.

It is important to act early if your child does have a health problem. Be sure to follow up with your healthcare provider if an issue is found. Make sure the hospital and your healthcare provider have the correct address and phone number where you can be reached. If you move, make sure your healthcare provider has the updated information.

You can find out more about newborn screening by visiting these links:

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

Centers for Disease Control

 

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