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There are a number of tests and checks that will be offered for your baby in the first few weeks:

  • A referral to Orthopaedics will be done to check their hips if your baby has risk factors.
  • A midwife will complete a test shining light into your baby's eyes to make sure there are no cataracts or other eye problems (Red Eye Reflex).
  • Newborn Hearing Screeners will arrange a hearing test as close to your baby being 48 hours old. See Newborn Hearing Screening on the National Screening Unit website for more information.
  • There will be a blood test (sometimes called the Guthrie test) that involves pricking your baby’s heel to check for rare disorders (PKU test). See Newborn Metabolic Screening on the National Screening Unit website for more information.