Common Newborn Tests

Assessing your newborn is an important part of examining your baby for signs of health and normal function. Here's what you should know about common newborn tests.

A complete physical exam is an important part of newborn care. Each body system is carefully examined for signs of health and normal function. The doctor also looks for any signs of illness or birth defects.

Here are routine tests your baby will undergo.

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Newborn metabolic screening

Most babies look healthy and perfect when they are born. But because some potential problems aren't readily apparent, all newborns are tested for certain conditions, including metabolic disorders.

Phenylketonuria  

This is a blood test to screen newborns for phenylketonuria, or PKU, a condition that can cause brain damage and severe intellectual disability if it goes untreated.

Screening with pulse oximetry for congenital heart defects

Pulse oximetry is a simple, painless, and quick test. It can be used to screen for certain heart defects that some babies are born with.

Well-baby checkup for the newborn

Your baby’s first checkup will likely happen within a week of birth. At this newborn visit, the healthcare provider will examine your baby and ask you questions about the first few days at home.

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