Care Of Newborn
Care of normal newborn
- Plan delivery at a centre with active neonatal care with pediatrician
- Poor cry, poor movements, and hurried respiration needs urgent attention and treatment.
- Every efforts should be made to avoid separation.
- Initiation of breast feeding within 1st hour of birth.
- Early bonding through skin-to skin contact with mother.
- Healthy newborn should be early room-in with mother.
- Baby friendly initiative with care of mother and baby in one room.
- Breast feeding should be started at the earliest opportunity, preferably within 1st golden hour
- Feeding followed by burping in upright position.
- Avoid bath at birth
- Dry cord care without application of antiseptic or antibiotics.
- Eyes should be cleaned from inner to outer side with separate sterile swab dipped with sterile or distilled water.
- Exclusive breast feeding in every 2-3hrs should be promoted.
- Watch urination of babies to access amount of feeding.
- No mouth cleaning of babies till 6months
- New born screening panel from blood including thyroid should be sent after 48hrs of life for all babies.
- Any early jaundice in first 1-2 days are not normal and needs evaluation.
- Jaundice in newborn at 5-7 days are normal and needs phototherapy if in higher range.
- Newborn exclusive breast feeding will pass multiple loose stool.
- Oil massage should be started after complete drying of cord.
- No powder application till 1 month
- Stool will very irregular initially varying from multiple loose stools to once in every 2-3 days.
- Baby should pass at least 7-8 urine /day
- Few sneezing is normal
- Room temperature should be cool not too hot or cold
- No Ghee or honey should be given even in rituals
- Avoid handing of babies by multiple persons.
The care of new borns point can be further divided into 3 parts. General care, Routine care and Neonatal Jaundice awareness.
1. Feeding: Newborns typically need to feed every 2-3 hours, and it’s important to watch for hunger cues, such as rooting or sucking on their fists. For breastfed babies, offer the breast whenever the baby shows signs of hunger. For formula-fed babies, follow the instructions on the formula container for the amount and frequency of feedings.
2. Diapering: Newborns need frequent diaper changes, with at least 6-8 wet diapers and 3-4 dirty diapers per day. It’s important to clean the diaper area thoroughly and use a diaper cream to prevent diaper rash.
3. Bathing: Newborns don’t need to be bathed every day, and it’s usually enough to bathe them 2-3 times per week. Use a gentle, fragrance-free soap and warm water, and be sure to support the baby’s head and neck. No mouth cleaning till the baby is 6 months old.
4. Sleeping: Newborns need a lot of sleep, with most newborns sleeping 16-17 hours per day. It’s important to create a safe sleep environment, with the baby sleeping on their back on a firm, flat surface with no loose bedding or soft objects in the crib.
5. Bonding: Bonding with the baby is an important part of caring for a newborn. Spend time holding and cuddling the baby, talking or singing to them, and making eye contact.
5. Bonding: Bonding with the baby is an important part of caring for a newborn. Spend time holding and cuddling the baby, talking or singing to them, and making eye contact.
6. Well-baby visits: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are important for monitoring the baby’s growth and development and ensuring that they are meeting important milestones.
It’s important to trust your instincts when caring for a newborn and to seek help if you have concerns or questions. Reach out to a healthcare provider or lactation consultant for guidance and support.