What is it?

Screening tests help your doctor look for a certain disease or condition before any symptoms appear. All provinces offer newborn screening, although the conditions screened for vary from province to province. In Alberta, blood spot screening looks for certain treatable conditions. Babies in Alberta are also screened for hearing loss.

Why is this test done?

This test is done to find out whether your baby is at risk of having certain conditions that could eventually cause problems. When discovered early, these conditions can be treated to improve the child's health.

How can you prepare for the test?

In general, you don't need to prepare your baby for this test.

How is the test done?

For blood spot screening, the baby's heel is poked using a small plastic object called a lancet and several drops of blood are collected. Your baby may have a tiny bruise where the heel was poked.

For hearing screening, a soft ear tip is placed in the baby's ears. Tones or clicks are used to test for a hearing response. Sometimes small electrodes are placed on the baby's head.

What do the results of the test mean?

If the test result is abnormal, remember that this is only a screening test. An abnormal result only means that further testing is needed.

How long does the test take?

The test will take a few minutes.

When should you call for help?

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if you have questions.