Newborn Bilirubin Checks
Purpose Pediatrics offers after-hours newborn bilirubin checks in Beaumont, TX. If your newborn is showing signs of jaundice and your pediatrician's office is closed, we’re here. We can screen bilirubin levels with a transcutaneous test and tell you whether further care is needed — without an ER visit.
When to Bring Your Newborn In
Bilirubin levels often rise in the first week of life and most cases resolve on their own. Bring your newborn in if you notice:
- Yellow tint to the skin or whites of the eyes
- Increasing yellow color over the first several days
- Poor feeding or sleeping more than usual
- Concerns flagged at a recent pediatrician visit that you want re-checked
If your newborn is lethargic, won't wake to feed, has a high-pitched cry, fever, or other signs of serious illness, please go to the ER — those symptoms can indicate a more urgent issue.
What We Do at Your Visit
A pediatric provider evaluates your newborn and uses a transcutaneous bilirubin meter — a non-invasive skin test — to estimate bilirubin levels. If the screening is reassuring, we'll send you home with a clear plan and a recommendation to follow up with your pediatrician. If the screening suggests elevated levels, we'll explain what to do next, which may include a blood test through your pediatrician or further evaluation.
What to Bring
- Your child's insurance card
- Your newborn's discharge paperwork from the hospital
- Notes on feeding and wet/dirty diaper count over the past 24 hours
- The name of your child's regular pediatrician (if established)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the test painful for my baby?
No. The transcutaneous bilirubin test is a non-invasive skin scan. Your baby will feel it but it shouldn't be painful. No needles or blood draw is needed at this stage.
How accurate is the screening?
Transcutaneous bilirubin screening is a reliable initial assessment. If we get a result that suggests further testing is needed, we'll guide you to the right next step — usually a blood test through your child's regular pediatrician or hospital lab.
Why not just go to the ER?
For an after-hours bilirubin check on an otherwise stable newborn could take hours in the emergency department and expose the newborn to illness. We can do the screening in a fraction of the time, at a fraction of the cost. If your newborn is lethargic, won't wake to feed, has a high-pitched cry, fever, or other signs of serious illness, please go to the ER.
How much does a bilirubin check cost?
$30 self-pay for the skin test in addition to the standard base rate. We also bill insurance.
*The bilirubin check is a full visit with exam, feeding and hydration assessments.
Visit Us in Beaumont
3560 Delaware St, Ste. 1202, Beaumont, TX 77706
(409) 225-5256
Monday–Friday: 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Saturday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM