geboortest

Geboortest is a Dutch term used to describe tests and screenings carried out around birth to assess a newborn’s health. It does not denote a single test but a set of procedures performed in maternity care during the early postnatal period.

Typical components include the APGAR score, assessed at 1 and 5 minutes after birth, which provides a quick measure of a newborn’s condition. A newborn metabolic and endocrine screening (heel-prick test) is usually done within the first week to detect certain disorders. Hearing screening is often offered to identify congenital hearing loss. Pulse oximetry screening checks for potential heart defects, and a general physical examination—often including a red-reflex eye check—complements the assessment.

The primary purpose of geboortest is to detect health problems early, allowing timely treatment and follow-up to improve outcomes and reduce complications. These tests contribute to a structured handover from birth care to ongoing infant health monitoring.

Process and consent: In many health systems, geboortest is part of standard newborn care and offered to all babies. Some elements may require parental information or consent, or follow jurisdiction-specific opt-out decisions. Results are typically recorded in the child’s medical record and used to guide further evaluation or treatment.

Variations: The exact tests and timing differ by country or region. In many European countries, there is a national newborn screening program alongside routine newborn assessment, reflecting local guidelines and available resources. The scope and organization of geboortest thus vary, but the underlying goal remains consistent: to safeguard newborn health from the outset.