What to Expect in the Hospital
A Calm, Clear Guide to Newborn Medical Procedures
There's nothing quite like the first time you meet your baby. Whether your birth is quick or slow, medicated or unmedicated, the moment your little one enters the world is unforgettable—and often, overwhelming. In between the first cries, the skin-to-skin cuddles, and the rush of emotion, a lot starts to happen around your newborn. Nurses begin their assessments, your provider checks in with you, and suddenly, your tiny human is the center of quiet (but important) medical activity.
As a parent—especially a first-time one—it's completely normal to feel unprepared for these early procedures. You may have read about them in passing or heard them mentioned during a birthing class, but when the moment arrives, you're likely running on love and adrenaline—not medical knowledge. That's why I've put together this steady, thoughtful guide: to walk you through the most common newborn hospital procedures so you can feel prepared, informed, and empowered from the very beginning. These aren't decisions you need to make under pressure; they're steps you can understand ahead of time, with calm clarity and confidence.
1. Vitamin K Injection
When is it done? Typically within the first hour or two after birth
Why is it done? Newborns naturally have very low levels of vitamin K—a nutrient essential for proper blood clotting. Without enough vitamin K, babies are at risk for Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB), a rare but potentially life-threatening condition. This shot is a preventative measure to protect your baby's ability to clot blood effectively in the early days.
What to expect: A nurse will administer a quick injection into your baby's thigh. It may cause a brief cry, but the discomfort is minimal and short-lived. Most hospitals give this shortly after birth unless you request a delay for initial bonding.
💡 What I've seen work over and over? Parents feel more at ease when they realize this isn't a medication to "fix" anything—it's a supplement to support something their baby can't produce enough of yet.
2. Erythromycin Eye Ointment
When is it done? Usually within the first 1–2 hours after birth
Why is it done? This antibiotic ointment is used to prevent eye infections caused by bacteria the baby might encounter in the birth canal, including gonorrhea or chlamydia. These infections can lead to serious eye damage or blindness if untreated. Even if you've tested negative for STIs, hospitals apply it universally out of an abundance of caution.
What to expect: The nurse gently applies a small amount of ointment to your baby's eyes. It can make their vision a bit blurry temporarily, so some hospitals offer the option to delay the procedure until after early bonding. Your baby may be a little squirmy, but it's painless.
3. Hepatitis B Vaccine (First Dose)
When is it done? Within the first 24 hours of birth
Why is it done? Hepatitis B is a serious virus that can be passed from mother to baby during delivery—even if mom shows no symptoms. Early vaccination significantly reduces the chance of transmission and protects your child from future infection.
What to expect: With your consent, a nurse will administer this vaccine via a small injection in your baby's thigh. It's the first in a 3-dose series, with the next doses given during routine pediatric visits. Most babies handle the shot with just a short cry, followed by a cuddle or feeding.
4. Newborn Screening (Heel Stick Blood Test)
When is it done? Between 24–48 hours after birth
Why is it done? This screening checks for over 30 rare genetic, metabolic, hormonal, and blood conditions, such as phenylketonuria (PKU), sickle cell disease, and congenital hypothyroidism. Most babies will never show symptoms of these conditions, but early detection can make a critical difference in long-term health and development.
What to expect: A small lancet is used to prick your baby's heel and collect a few drops of blood onto a special card. The procedure is quick, though some babies cry briefly. Comforting them with skin-to-skin or a feed afterward helps soothe them. Results are typically sent to your pediatrician within a couple of weeks.
5. Hearing Screening
When is it done? Before you're discharged from the hospital
Why is it done? Hearing is essential for early language and brain development. Identifying hearing issues at birth allows for early intervention, which can significantly improve developmental outcomes.
What to expect: There are two types of tests used—Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) and Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE). Both are painless and usually done while the baby is asleep or very calm. A small probe or sensor is placed in or around the ear, and soft sounds are played. The machine records the baby's response. Most babies pass the first time, but if not, it simply means the test will be repeated later—not necessarily that there is a problem.
6. Pulse Oximetry (Critical Congenital Heart Disease Screening)
When is it done? Between 24–48 hours after birth
Why is it done? This test checks the oxygen levels in your baby's blood to help detect critical congenital heart defects (CCHDs) that might not be obvious at birth.
What to expect: A small sensor is wrapped around your baby's hand and foot, similar to a Band-Aid. It reads oxygen saturation and pulse rate. The test is painless and non-invasive, and results are immediate. If levels are lower than expected, your care team may do further evaluation or monitoring.
A Few More You May Encounter:
- Weight checks, head circumference, and length measurements — all done shortly after birth and repeated before discharge.
- Temperature monitoring — especially in early hours to ensure your baby is adjusting to life outside the womb.
- First bath — Some hospitals delay the first bath 12+ hours to support bonding and temperature regulation.
Making Choices with Confidence
These procedures are designed to protect and support your baby during a delicate and critical window. Still, they are your baby's procedures—and your consent matters. If something feels unclear or you'd like to delay something like the eye ointment or bath to prioritize bonding, it's okay to ask. Nurses, midwives, and pediatricians are there to partner with you, not pressure you.
✨ Here's your gentle nudge: Trust your gut. Ask your questions. You don't need to memorize everything—you just need to feel comfortable speaking up.
Gentle Prep for Delivery Day
- Write your preferences in your birth plan (like delaying procedures until after bonding or asking for explanations in the moment)
- Talk with your provider before delivery about which procedures are standard at your hospital and what's optional
- Remember, you can always say: "Can you walk me through this before we begin?"
You're Already Doing Beautifully
Knowing what to expect doesn't make you less of a new parent—it makes you a more prepared one. You're stepping into this new chapter with curiosity, love, and a desire to care deeply for your child. That matters more than anything.
💛 Take this at your own pace. Ask the questions. Take the pause. You're not alone.
Mantra to carry with you:
"My baby and I are learning together. I trust myself, and I am ready."