Baby lab Tests
Babies in a hospital, especially those in neonatal intensive care, often undergo a variety of lab tests to monitor their health and diagnose any conditions. Here are some common lab tests and what they assess:
Procedures for common lab tests
- Collection: Blood samples are usually taken via a heel prick, venipuncture, or from an existing central line or arterial line.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Assesses red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets.
- Blood Gas Analysis: Measures oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH levels to assess lung function and acid-base balance.
- Blood Glucose Levels: Monitors for hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
- Electrolyte Panel: Checks levels of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
- Bilirubin Levels: Measures bilirubin to detect jaundice.
- Procedures:
- Chest X-ray: Assesses lung and heart health.
- Ultrasound: Checks for abnormalities in organs like the brain or heart.
- Echocardiogram: Evaluates heart structure and function.
- Procedures:
- Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE): Measures sound waves in the inner ear.
- Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR): Assesses the hearing nerve’s response to sounds.
- Preparation: Ensure the baby is calm and comfortable. Use appropriate restraints if necessary to minimize movement.
- Sterilization: Clean the collection site with an antiseptic to prevent infection.
- Sample Collection: Use appropriate techniques (heel prick, venipuncture, etc.) to collect the sample.
- Labeling: Immediately label the sample with the baby’s information to prevent mix-ups.
- Transport: Send the sample to the lab promptly, ensuring it’s handled according to guidelines (e.g., on ice if required).
- Analysis: Laboratory technicians perform the requested tests.
- Results: Results are documented and communicated to the healthcare team for interpretation and action.
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