Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital

The Wasie Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital runs many tests to monitor our patients' health. Below are some of the most common tests:

• ABG/CBG/Blood Gas
  A sample of blood used to determine adequate oxygenation, ventilation, respiratory function and chemical balance in the body.
• Bilirubin
  The waste product that results in the breakdown of red blood cells.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  A report on the results of several tests on a blood specimen. Here are some of the elements of the CBC:
  • Red blood cells carry oxygen to the cells of the body
  • Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying molecule of red blood cells, which are, essentially, tiny circulation bags of hemoglobin
  • Hematocrit is a measure of the fractional level of red cells
  • Platelets are the cells that plug leaks in the vascular system
  There are several types of white cells, including:
  • Band cells appear in response to stress or bacterial infection
  • Polymorphonuclear cells fight bacterial infections
  • Lymphocytes are virus killers
  • Monocytes are cells that have a killing and cleaning function
  • Eosinophils are cells related to allergy and recognition of foreign things
  • Basophils are cells that are a part of the allergy and recognition system
• Culture
  A test for the presence of germs in the fluids of the body. Specimens may be obtained from urine, blood, spinal fluid or drainage from abscesses from other sites. The results are read at 24, 48 and 72 hours.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG)
  Records electrical activity in the human brain, often used in the diagnosis of brain conditions.
• Electrolytes (LYTES)
  A blood chemistry test that includes sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate levels and sometimes, glucose, BUN and creatinine levels. These tests are useful in fluid management.
• Ultrasound
  Non-invasive test using sound waves to visualize internal organs. Can be used for the head (brain, ventricles), kidneys, etc.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  A specialized form of imaging without X-rays.