States South Dakota

Program Overview:

All newborns in South Dakota are required by law to have a blood test and hearing screen after birth to screen for metabolic and other inherited conditions. The newborn screening helps identify babies who may have one of these conditions and can alert the baby's doctor to the need for further testing and special care. With early diagnosis and medical treatment, complications from these serious but uncommon conditions may be prevented.

In order to test your newborn, a sample of blood is obtained by pricking the baby's heel. This sample is then placed on special paper which is sent to the designated laboratory for testing. The lab uses this one sample of blood to test for all the mandated disorders. The sample is usually obtained on the day the baby is discharged from the hospital, and the ideal sample is taken anytime between 24-48 hours of birth.

The results of the tests are returned directly to the birth facility where the test was obtained. You can ask about the results when you take your baby in for a regular check-up. Generally, parents are notified only if further testing is needed. If your baby's doctor asks you to bring your baby in for retesting, do so as soon as possible.

There are three main reasons why you may be told a repeat screening test may be needed. These include a possible problem with the sample, the fact that the test was done prior to 24 hours of age, or in very rare instances, the possibility that the test result was abnormal, which may indicate a condition.

Generally, if the results of the repeat screening test are also abnormal, the doctor will discuss the need for further treatment or testing. It is important that your hospital and doctor have your correct address and phone number to contact you. If your baby needs to be retested, get it done as soon as possible.