Observation box

In some cases, a doctor may recommend that a baby be placed in the neonatal observation unit, where the baby is monitored by medical equipment and, if necessary, receives treatment. The observation unit is part of the neonatal ward and is located close to the rooms for mothers. Here, we care for babies with postnatal adaptation difficulties, mild immaturity, low birth weight, or those from high-risk pregnancies or following a complicated birth. We are ready to inform you at any time about your baby’s current health, answer your questions and allay your concerns. Parents’ access to the neonatal unit is not subject to visiting hours; it is unrestricted and we actively encourage parents to visit. A breastfeeding chair for mothers is available near the incubator or heated cot. We involve parents in their child’s care as soon as possible.

At the ONP, we carry out the following screening tests:

· National Laboratory Screening (NLS) – using a drop of blood from the heel, we now screen for 20 different metabolic disorders and rare diseases; the test is carried out between 48 and 72 hours after birth. This involves collecting drops of blood onto two special cards with filter paper. These are sent to two reference laboratories in Prague. Negative results are not reported. If the screening needs to be repeated or further tests are required, the laboratory will contact you.

· Congenital cataract screening – using a handheld ophthalmoscope, we examine the presence of the red reflex (reflection from the retina).

· Hearing screening (OAE – otoacoustic emissions) – a painless instrumental examination in which a small probe is inserted into the edge of the external auditory canal

· Screening for critical congenital heart defects (CCHD) – a combination of a clinical examination and assessment of SpO₂ (blood oxygen saturation) in the upper and lower limbs using a wrist sensor can help detect a hidden heart defect; we schedule the examination for between 48 and 72 hours after birth, together with the NLS

· Screening for congenital hip dysplasia (CHD) – clinical examination by a paediatrician in the maternity ward; we assess the position and mobility of the hip joints; after discharge – around the 14th day of life – the first examination by an orthopaedic surgeon takes place, together with an ultrasound scan of the hips

· Screening for congenital kidney defects – ultrasound examination of the kidneys by a paediatrician to rule out dilation of the renal pelvis and congenital anomalies – carried out shortly before the planned discharge to home care