A new heart defect screening for newborn babies has been introduced at the University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM), potentially saving lives by detecting heart problems early.
All babies born at the Royal Stoke University Hospital will now receive oxygen saturation screening. This test can identify critical congenital heart disease before the baby shows any signs of illness.
The test, known as pulse oximetry screening, is quick, painless, and non-invasive. It is also being extended to UHNM’s community midwifery teams, providing the test to expectant mothers who choose to give birth at home.
Dr. Asha Shenvi, a consultant neonatologist at UHNM, explained that the screening is a simple, safe method to detect life-threatening heart defects in babies early. “The test can also identify other serious conditions, like respiratory disorders and sepsis,” Dr. Shenvi said. “We are excited to offer this service, as it allows for early intervention and better care for babies.”
The screening, which takes about five minutes, involves attaching a soft sensor to the baby’s hand and foot. Babies are tested before they are 24 hours old.
Claire Pearce, whose daughter Isla was born at Royal Stoke on March 5, was one of the first to undergo the screening. “It’s reassuring to have this test available,” said Claire, 37, from Goldenhill. “The care at UHNM has been fantastic.”
Donna Brayford, UHNM’s deputy director of midwifery, praised the collaboration of various teams to implement the screening. “This is a great example of teamwork, ensuring safer care for our patients.”
Lizzie Gill, a community midwife at UHNM, expressed excitement about offering the same care to families having home births as those delivering in hospital.
The equipment for the screening was donated by Tiny Tickers, a charity dedicated to improving the detection and treatment of heart conditions in babies.
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