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| | Testing and Lab Procedures |
Babies in the newborn intensive care unit (NICU) need frequent examinations and monitoring as part of their care. Although many tests require drawing blood from your baby, they are necessary to help monitor your baby's condition and to identify potential problems.
Common tests or lab work in the NICU may include the following:
- blood typing - to check the blood group (A, B, O) and the Rh factor (positive or negative)
- testing for anemia (too few red blood cells) or polycythemia (too many red blood cells)
- testing for infection in the blood, urine, or spinal fluid
- blood gases to measure oxygen levels and carbon dioxide
- blood sugar
- electrolyte levels
- x-rays (to check placement of tubes or view the condition of the lungs, heart, or abdomen)
Each baby's needs and care is different. Always consult your baby's physician for more information about which tests are needed for your baby.
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The information on this Web page is provided for educational purposes. You understand and agree that this information is not intended to be, and should not be used as, a substitute for medical treatment by a health care professional. You agree that Lucile Salter Packard Children’s Hospital is not making a diagnosis of your condition or a recommendation about the course of treatment for your particular circumstances through the use of this Web page. You agree to be solely responsible for your use of this Web page and the information contained on this page. Lucile Salter Packard Children’s Hospital, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and information providers shall not be liable for any damages you may suffer or cause through your use of this page even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
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Lucile Packard Children's Hospital is located in Palo Alto, adjacent to Stanford University Hospital, approximately 20 miles north of San Jose, CA and 40 miles south of San Francisco.
Lucile Packard Children's Hospital
725 Welch Road
Palo Alto, California 94304
(650) 497-8000
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