To Screen or Not to Screen: Complexities of Newborn Screening in the 21st Century

ABSTRACTNewborn screening is a routine occurrence in every newborn nursery; however, there are many things that the practicing nurse practitioner may not be aware of. What is the appropriate process for screening newborns? What tests are included in the state where you practice? Who is responsible for following up on the results of newborn screening tests and educating and referring families to the appropriate resources in the healthcare community? These questions challenge families of newborns, the practitioners caring for them in the hospital and in the community, and the state agencies making decisions about the process. It is hoped that this article will clarify some of these issues for the advanced practice nurse.