A baby's first health tests

A baby's first health tests

Your baby's health will be examined and bodily measurements will be taken.

By the YeahBaby.com editorial staff

A baby will receive a health examination in the first minutes after delivery. A baby's heart rate will be monitored to ensure the heart is properly functioning.

A sample of blood will be extracted from the newborn's heel. The blood will be tested for a number of conditions. A sample of umbilical cord blood will be taken to test for the baby's blood type. Newborns will be given an injection of vitamin K to boost their blood clotting ability.

The new baby's eyes will be treated with antibiotic drops, typically the drug erythromycin. Antibiotic ointments and drops will help prevent infections.

Delivery room nurses will take bodily measurements of your newborn. These measurements will be vital in assessing a newborn's rate of growth. The baby will be weighed again 24 hours later and given a more thorough examination. This follow-up examination is a great opportunity to a doctor about your baby's health and any special.

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