When is NMS typically conducted?

NMS, which stands for Newborn Metabolic Screening, is a vital public health initiative designed to identify certain metabolic or genetic disorders in newborns early in life. The screening is performed shortly after birth, typically within the first few days of life. According to federal law in many regions, screening is mandated for all newborns to ensure timely intervention and treatment, thereby improving health outcomes.

This approach is crucial because many of the conditions detected by NMS may not show immediate symptoms but can lead to significant health issues if not identified and managed early. By conducting NMS universally on all newborns, healthcare providers can implement necessary treatments before the onset of complications, ensuring better long-term health for the infant.

While the other options suggest varying limitations on the groups to be screened, they do not align with the objective of universal health care practices aimed at safeguarding all newborns. Thus, the correct answer reflects the comprehensive nature of the newborn metabolic screening as required by law.