Newborn Screens
Inborn Error of Metabolism
According to the Alabama law, all newborns are screened for metabolic and inherited disorders. This screen helps to identify babies who may have rare, but very serious life-threatening disorders. If detected early, babies may be medically treated or supplemented with vitamins to prevent irreversible damages. The screen is performed prior to the discharge of your baby from the hospital. A more comprehensive test that screens for over 30 types of inborn errors of metabolism is available at the parents’ request.
http://www.adph.org/newbornscreening/
Newborn Hearing Screen
To detect hearing and implement interventions early, all newborns are screened for hearing loss. If your baby does not pass the screen, further diagnostic audiologic testing will be needed.
Eye Exam
Babies born prematurely are at risk for vision problems. If your baby was born with birth weight less than 1500 grams (3lbs. and 5 ounces) and/or at less than 32 weeks gestation, at 4 – 6 weeks of age your baby will have an eye exam by a pediatric eye specialist (ophthalmologist). Most babies will have more than one exam while still in the hospital. Some babies need follow-up after discharge. An appointment for follow-up will be arranged for your baby at the time of discharge.
http://kidshealth.org/parent/system/ill/nicu_diagnoses.html
Intracranial Ultrasound
A premature baby’s brain is very fragile and prone to bleeding. Intracranial ultrasound is a test used to diagnose intracranial (brain) bleeding through the soft spots (fontanels) of the baby’s head. Brain bleeding is common in babies born at less than 1500 gm (3lbs, 5ounces). The amount of bleeding is graded (I – IV). Grade III and IV are the most severe and may result in long-term brain injury. Babies with an abnormal intracranial ultrasound will need another ultrasound before discharge and close follow-up with the pediatrician and neurologist after the discharge home.
http://kidshealth.org/parent/system/ill/nicu_diagnoses.html#IntraventricularHemorrhageIVH