Study: common tests, treatments for newborns unhelpful, may cause harm

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A new study published in the new issue of the journal Pediatrics says many medications and tests commonly given to newborns don't do any good and may actually harm babies.

Researchers say anti-reflux prescriptions are one example, saying the science doesn't show any benefit and the medications can cause dangerous infections.

They also say daily chest scans increase infants' exposure to radiation without cutting complications.

Researchers say that in general, doctors should avoid those treatments.