You've waited patiently – and some days, impatiently – all these months to see the sweet face of your baby. Then, only a few moments after the birth, the nurse or staff want to whisk your baby away for several assessments. These tests must be done, but only to ensure that your baby is in good health. Some of these exams, such as the APGAR, can be done with baby laying on your chest or abdomen skin-to-skin. Other tests can be delay until after the first hour of birth to allow time for you and your baby to bond. These assessments, performed on all newborns, also help keep new babies healthy as they adjust to life outside the uterus.
The following procedures will be performed on your baby: