Something to Remember
Newborn Screening Test
It is recommended that all babies in Queensland have a screening test that checks
for uncommon but serious medical conditions. These conditions can be present at
birth and may cause serious complications. In most cases, if the conditions are found
in the newborn, they can be treated and the baby will grow and develop normally.
This test screens for:
• Congenital hypothyroidism
• Cystic fibrosis
• Amino acid disorders e.g. Phenylketonuriab (PKU)
• Fatty acid oxidation disorders
• Other rare metabolic disorders
When the baby is between 48 and 72 hours old, a midwife will perform a heel prick
and place three small spots of blood on a piece of blotting card. If the results are
normal, you will not be contacted. This is the case for more than 99% of babies. If
your baby is found to have a medical condition, you will be contacted and your baby
will be referred to a specialist for tests and treatment. This test can be performed
whilst your baby is breastfeeding to assist with comforting your baby.
Circumcision
There are no medical benefits for circumcision for newborn baby boys. If you choose
to have your baby circumcised, ask your obstetrician for a referral to a surgeon.
Premature babies – special care nursery
The Special Care Nursery (located within the Maternity Ward) at Mitcham Private
Hospital can care for babies born from 32 weeks. Our specialised team of
paediatricians, nurses and midwives are able to care for babies requiring specialist
neonatal care. In the event of a baby being born prematurely or very ill, transfer from our
Special Care Nursery to a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit can be actioned without delay.
Entering the Special Care Nursery may feel unfamiliar and some equipment might even
generate feelings of concern. You are encouraged to participate in all aspects of your
baby’s care. Our highly skilled Special Care Nursery staff will support you and explain
any piece of equipment or procedure that may be involved in the care of your baby.
Crying
These are several reasons why
your baby may be crying:
• Hunger
• Wind
• Pain
• Needing a clean nappy
• Too hot
• Too cold
• Tiredness
• Boredom
• Loneliness
• Sickness
Initially, crying is the only way
babies have to communicate
their needs. As your baby grows,
you will learn to recognise the
difference between a distressed
cry and a cry for attention.
Mitcham Maternity Childbirth and Parent Education 37