Newborn Screening
Newborn screening is an important part of early infant health. At PediaLabs®, our certified phlebotomists provide gentle, accurate newborn screening services in the comfort of your home or at our draw station. We understand how delicate this stage of life is, and we take special care to make the process calm, safe, and as quick as possible for both baby and parents.
What Is Newborn Screening?
Newborn screening is a routine test performed in the first days of a baby’s life to check for certain medical conditions that aren’t always visible at birth. Early detection helps your pediatrician identify and address potential health concerns as soon as possible.
This screening is typically done when an infant is 5–10 days old, but your provider may request it slightly earlier or later depending on your baby’s needs.
How the Screening Works
A newborn screen is most often performed using the heel stick method.
Heel Stick
A small, quick incision is made on your baby’s heel using a sterile lancet. A few drops of blood are collected onto a special filter paper card, which is then sent to the testing laboratory for analysis.
While brief, we understand that any procedure involving a newborn can feel stressful – so we work gently and efficiently to keep your baby as comfortable as possible.
Venous Draw
If your baby also needs additional blood tests or diagnostic labs, the newborn screen can be completed through a venous draw instead of a heel stick.
This option is ideal when your provider orders multiple tests at once, reducing the number of separate procedures your baby needs.
Mobile Newborn Screening
We offer mobile newborn screening so you don’t have to leave home with a brand-new baby.
One of our certified phlebotomists comes to your home at your scheduled time, brings all supplies, performs the screening, and delivers the sample to the appropriate laboratory.
This service is especially helpful for:
- Postpartum recovery
- Families with multiple young children
- Babies needing additional lab testing
- Parents who prefer a quiet, familiar environment
Why Families Choose PediaLabs®
- Gentle, experienced pediatric phlebotomists
- Special focus on infant and pediatric blood draws
- Mobile and in-office options available
- Certified Autism Specialist on staff (Maria)
- Patient-centered, compassionate care
- Clear communication and professional handling of all specimens
Areas We Serve
If you’re unsure whether we serve your location, contact us – we’re always expanding our service area to meet growing demand.
Insurance and Payment Options
PediaLabs® blood draw fees are self-pay and we accept major credit cards and HSA cards. Lab processing and testing fees are billed to your insurance, and we will submit insurance information to the contracted lab for you.
We believe quality care should be accessible and transparent, so we make sure billing is simple and communication is clear. If you have questions, we have answers.
Never Cries With Maria
“I drive over an hour to have PediaLabs draw bloodwork for my daughter. We have gone since she was a baby and she has never cried with Maria!! We will continue to go with them and HIGHLY recommend them for your kids.”
Tierney G.
Highly Recommended By Our Doctor
“Highly recommended by our doctor and she got our son’s labs done when other places had not been able to. Very fortunate to have her work with my son. She is excellent.”
Nita W.
Professional & Personable
“She was the perfect mix of slow calm, but efficient fast. Very professional and personable. I would definitely recommend PediaLabs to other parents for their kids.”
Demetria O.
FAQs
Does the newborn screening hurt?
A newborn screen involves a quick heel stick or a small venous draw. Your baby may react to the brief pinch, but the discomfort is minimal and lasts only a moment. We work gently and efficiently to keep your baby calm and comfortable throughout the process.
Can I hold my baby during the screening?
Yes. Parents are welcome to hold or soothe their baby during the screening. A familiar voice and comforting touch help keep newborns relaxed.
When should my baby get the newborn screen?
In most cases, newborn screening is performed when your baby is 5–10 days old, but your pediatrician may request it sooner or slightly later based on your baby’s needs.
Schedule Your Newborn Screening
Ready to schedule your newborn’s screening?
Call us or request an appointment online. We’ll verify your lab order, answer your questions, and send a certified phlebotomist to your home or book you at our draw station.
Your baby’s comfort and safety are always our priority.