Health Screening Guidelines for Children from Birth to Age 2
Screening tests are an important part of managing your child’s health. The American Academy of Pediatrics Here are screening guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics for children from birth to age 2. You and your child’s healthcare provider may decide that a different schedule is best for your child. But this plan can guide your discussion. Talk with your child’s healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on what they need.
| Screening* | Who needs it | How often |
|
Apgar score. These are measurements done soon after birth. They include heart rate, breathing, skin color, muscle tone, and reflex responses. This score is used to check a newborn's general health at birth. |
All newborns |
1 and 5 minutes after birth |
|
High lead level |
All children in this age group |
Risk assessment of lead exposure at 6, 9, and 18 months. Risk assessment or blood test at 12 and 24 months. Children considered to be at risk may need more testing from age 18 months to 6 years. |
|
Newborn screenings. This is a series of tests for metabolic, endocrine, hemoglobin, and other conditions. The tests may vary by state. Tests check for hearing loss, congenital hypothyroidism, phenylketonuria, sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, severe heart problems, and severe immunodeficiency. |
All newborns. Ask your child's healthcare provider about the tests in your state. |
Before leaving the hospital |
|
Tooth decay |
Children ages 6 months and older |
Dental exams every 6 months. Fluoride supplements from age 6 months to 16 years for those with low fluoride levels in their water. Fluoride varnish should be applied every 3 to 6 months. |