Which newborn test is used to screen for metabolic or genetic disorders after birth?

• A. Eye ointment
• B. Vitamin K
• C. Blood sample for disorder testing
• D. Hearing screen

Answer: (C)

Newborn screening for metabolic or genetic disorders is done with a small blood sample collected by a heel prick to test a panel of conditions. This blood test looks for several treatable conditions that may not be obvious at birth but can cause serious health problems if not found early, so starting treatment promptly can prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Other common newborn tests serve different purposes: eye ointment helps prevent eye infections, vitamin K helps prevent bleeding problems, and a hearing screen checks for hearing ability. While all are important for newborn care, they do not screen for metabolic or genetic disorders.