Newborn Screening

Newborn screening is a population-based public health initiative to identify newborns that are at risk for genetic and other congenital disorders. Early detection of genetic diseases can lead to early intervention and a significant reduction in morbidity and mortality of affected newborns. Identifying newborns before the onset of symptoms can dramatically improve clinical outcomes for most children. Because technology has advanced, the ability to screen for more conditions at the same cost has increased. Yet, there remains divergence in screening programs among the states, and the cost of implementing follow-up services has increased. Nurses play important roles in educating parents about the content and implications of newborn screening.