Information for Families Handout
Welcome, and Congratulations on Your New Baby!
Having a new baby is an exciting and special time. It can also bring lots of questions. Doctors and nurses will check your baby’s health after birth with a few tests. One of the newest tests checks for serious heart problems that a baby might be born with. These are called Critical Congenital Heart Disease (CCHD).
What is the CCHD Test?
The test is called pulse oximetry. It is:- Used to check how much oxygen is in your baby’s blood baby’s blood.
- Quick, easy, and does not hurt
- is usually done when your baby is between 24 to 48 hours old (If your baby is getting extra oxygen, the test might be done later.)
How is the Test Done?
A nurse will gently place a soft sticker (called a probe) on your baby's right hand and one foot. This probe checks the oxygen level in your baby’s blood.
What Do the Results Mean?
- Most babies pass the test the first time and don’t need more testing.
- A few babies may need the test done again.
- If the oxygen level is low more than once, your baby may need another test called an echocardiogram to check the heart.
What is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. It is painless and works like the ultrasound used during pregnancy. Some hospitals can do this test for babies. If not, your baby may go to another hospital to get it done.
Important to Know
This test may not find every heart problem—some babies can have heart issues even if their oxygen level is normal. But this test can help find serious heart problems early, especially if they were missed before birth.
For more information, please explore the other pages on this website or ask your doctor or nurse. Your baby’s health is important, and we’re here to help!
