Dr. Emily Bromley, Guest columnist

Health Matters: Newborn Screening and Baby Safety

Did you know more babies arrive in September than in any other month? Whether due to cold winter nights or the magic of the holidays, we doctors and nurses who work in hospital birthing centers are always busy this time of year.

We love partnering and celebrating with moms, parents and families as we welcome newborns into the world. Nothing brings joy like a baby.

And we all want to help keep these new bundles of joy safe and healthy.

In September we recognize Newborn Screening Awareness and Baby Safety Month.

While still in the hospital, all babies are given a "heel stick" blood test to detect if the baby has any rare diseases or conditions so appropriate treatment can begin.

The newborn screening test will detect cystic fibrosis, phenylketonuria (PKU) and more than 50 other possible treatable conditions.

After delivery, we'll also put erythromycin ointment in the newborn's eyes, and give a vitamin K shot to help with blood clotting along with giving a hepatitis B vaccine.

This routine screening and treatment helps ensure babies reach their best health potential right from the start.

There's also an opportunity for prenatal and genetic testing before and during pregnancy, for moms and parents who are interested in preparing for their future family.

Horizon screening tests will determine if a parent is a recessive gene carrier of a disease, increasing the likelihood of passing it down to an infant.

And while screening provides information to best care and plan for a baby, there's a handful of items to keep in mind to keep a baby safe.

It starts in the hospital where nurses help show new parents how to clean, feed and generally care for a newborn. Our caring nurses are committed to making new moms feel comfortable and confident before taking the newborn home.

Other safety basics include "baby proofing" your home so as the baby starts to crawl, they won't get into anything hazardous or dangerous.

Sleep safety is also very important. A proper, safe crib is essential with nothing in it for the baby to suffocate in or become tangled with.

Car seat safety is also vital. If you need help checking a car seat, you may schedule an appointment with a certified technician by contacting Life Resources of Northern Michigan at 231-796-4919. There will also be a car seat safety check from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 16 at the Reed City Fire Department, 523 Morse St., Reed City.

Babies. We all know they're precious. Let's keep them safe and healthy!

I'm happy to "deliver" this baby screening and baby safety news to you.

-- Emily Bromley, MD, is an obstetrician at Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital Obstetrics, Gynecology and Urology.

Read more:
Health Matters: Newborn Screening and Baby Safety - The Pioneer

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