Newborn Care
Newborn Care Begins From The Moment Your Baby Arrives
Please review our office policies and "Are we a good fit" to ensure we are the right office for you.
If you’re pregnant, looking for a pediatrician, and you’d like to take a tour of the office and meet Dr. Garofalo, or schedule a newborn visit, call our office.
In the hospital, your baby will be examined by one of the very experienced newborn hospitalist physicians. As soon as you know when you are being discharged from the hospital, please call our office. We will schedule your baby’s first visit within 1-3 days after discharge.
Newborn Care FAQs
When does my newborn have their first checkup?
Your newborn's first checkup occurs just days after leaving the hospital. This comprehensive exam ensures your baby is growing and developing normally. During the visit, the pediatrician will:
- Check your baby's weight, length, and head circumference
- Assess feeding, bowel, and sleeping habits
- Conduct a physical examination, including an eye exam
- Perform a developmental evaluation
These checkups also provide an opportunity for you to ask questions. Whether you're unsure about bathing, facing feeding challenges, or concerned about sleep schedules, this is your time to address any concerns.
What screenings does newborn care include?
Some states screen for genetic and rare medical conditions, including 32 core and 24 secondary conditions. The goal is to identify and treat diseases early enough to prevent serious complications such as growth problems, developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, blindness, deafness, and seizures.
Within the first 24 hours after delivery, your newborn has a hearing screening, and blood is drawn from their heel to run the routine screening tests. Some states require the same procedure to take place at your baby’s two-week checkup.