Why does my baby need newborn screening tests?
- Most babies are healthy when they are born.
- We test all babies because a few babies look healthy but have a rare health problem.
- If we find these problems early, we can help prevent serious problems like organ damage, mental retardation or death.
How will my baby be tested?
- A few drops of blood are taken while your baby is still in the hospital nursery.
- The hospital sends the blood sample to the Arkansas Public Health Laboratory for testing.
- If your baby is not born in the hospital, your baby will need to be tested by the seventh day of life in the doctor’s office or local health department.
How will I get the results of the test?
- Your baby’s doctor can give you the test results.
- Ask about results when you take your baby for a check-up.
What if my baby needs to be retested?
- Your baby’s doctor will contact you if there is a problem.
- Sometimes the test may have been done too soon after birth (the test is most accurate when done after 24 hours of age)
- Some babies need repeat testing if they were born prematurely or needed special care after birth such as a blood transfusion.
- A few babies need to be retested because the first test showed a possible health problem.
- Your baby’s doctor will tell you why the baby needs to be retested and what to do next.
- If your baby needs to be retested, it is very important to get it done right away.
- Make sure that your hospital and doctor have your correct address and phone number.
How can I learn more about the conditions tested in Arkansas?
- In Arkansas, babies are tested for over 28 different conditions, including sickle cell and cystic fibrosis (CF). For more information, call the Newborn Screening program at 501.280.4145.
What if I have questions?
- Ask your baby’s doctor if you have questions or concerns.
