What is Appropriate Medical Care for a Newborn with Down Syndrome?
By Laura Cifra-Bean, M.D., Co-Chair, NDSC Professional Advisory Committee All newborn care should begin with a thorough physical exam. If the clinician suspects the infant has Down syndrome, then a definitive diagnosis from a blood test to study the chromosomes is necessary. All babies who might have DS, need a cardiac evaluation that includes an echocardiogram. There is a high rate of heart defects even if a heart murmur is not heard. Pay special attention to feeding, weight loss and jaundice. Since abnormalities can occur, a blood count is needed. The routine state newborn screen will test for thyroid function. Perform a hearing test soon after birth and have an ophthalmologist examine the baby’s eyes before six months of age. Give parents information about local support groups, up-to-date references for information and a referral for early intervention services. Things to do when you learn your baby has Down syndrome… but you don’t need to do them all today! Adapted from the Down Sy
