Watch Their Hearts

The (CCHD) pulse ox screening measures the oxygen level in the blood and the heart rate. The test is fast, easy, and does not hurt. The screening is done after 24 hours after birth to allow the baby’s heart and lungs to fully adjust to life outside the womb.
Parents should know that newborn screening cannot catch every heart defect, so it’s crucial to be aware of warning signs to watch for at home.
With timely detection, many CHD babies live full lives!
WARNING SIGNS:
Extreme sleepiness or low activity
Sweating during feeds or with activity
Poor weight gain or failure to thrive
Bluish color around lips-face-fingertips
Poor feeding or tiring easily during feeds
Fast or labored breathing (especially when resting or feeding)
If you notice any of these warning signs in your baby, please contact your baby’s healthcare provider immediately.*
Let your baby’s healthcare provider know: a family history of CHD, a known genetic condition, or any maternal risk factors during pregnancy.
As your baby grows, make sure to schedule regular heart check-ups and monitor their growth and development. If your baby has a Congenital Heart Defect (CHD), ensure they receive a plan for long-term care.

Watch Their Hearts – REEL talk about your baby’s heart health

Extreme Sleepiness or Low Activity (English)

Somnolencia Extrema y Baja Actividad (Spanish)

Sweating During Feeds or With Activity (English)

Sudoración Mientras Come o Cuando Está Activo (Spanish)

*The Watch Their Hearts Initiative provides educational information to support awareness and advocacy related to congenital heart defects. It is not intended to diagnose or replace medical evaluation. Families are encouraged to discuss concerns with a qualified healthcare provider and seek further evaluation when symptoms persist.

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