Newborn screening (heel prick test)
newborn screening · heel prick test · newborn blood spot test · PKU test
A few drops of blood are taken from your baby's heel onto a special card. The test checks for rare inborn conditions that need treatment right away.
For all newborns, usually in the maternity hospital on day 2 to 5 of life. In premature babies, it may be later.
⏱ Duration: a few minutes; results usually come in 1 to 3 weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Feeding. The test is usually done a few hours after a feed. The nurse will tell you the time.
- Warmth. Warm feet give blood faster. Put socks on your baby.
- Stay close. You can hold your baby or stay nearby. Ask the nurse.
What to bring
- Your baby's and your documents, if the test is not in the maternity hospital
- The referral, if it is a repeat test
How it goes
- Your baby's foot is warmed and wiped
- The heel is pricked with a tiny lancet
- Drops of blood are placed on circles on a paper card
- A cotton pad is pressed on the spot
- The card is dried and sent to the lab
What you'll feel
- Your baby may cry. The prick is quick
- Breastfeeding, a pacifier, or a cuddle right after helps calm your baby
Afterwards
- The small mark on the heel heals in a few days
- If all is well, usually no one calls
- If a repeat test is needed, you will get a call. It does not always mean illness
Common questions
I got a call asking for a repeat test. Is that bad?
Not necessarily. Often it is because there was too little blood on the card or the test was done too early. Repeat it as soon as you can.
Which conditions does this test check for?
Several rare inborn conditions of metabolism and hormones. If they are treated early, the child grows up healthy.