Neonatal care involves all activities of taking care of the new born child for the first month. The baby even though healthy is extremely delicate and needs constant supervision and care. The baby has been safely living in the mother’s womb and has to now face the world outside. Let’s take a look at some of the important things that a new mother needs to know in those first few crucial days after delivery.
Jaundice Treatment
New born babies are highly susceptible to jaundice. To prevent this hospitals make the newborn baby undergoes a heat treatment to prevent jaundice. This has almost become a ritual in hospitals and clinics today. So ask your doctor if your new born baby needs treatment against jaundice.
Umbilical Cord
The area where the umbilical cord is severed should be kept clean with an alcoholic solution, as this area is highly prone to infection. Even though you keep this area clean, the umbilical cord will eventually dry up, shrink and fall off. While it may look and smell, it is a natural process and nothing to worry about. Once it falls off, there might be a tiny spot of bloody pus. This too will heal on its own. It is not a cause of concern.
Breastfeeding
A baby is born with the innate ability and urge to suck at her mother’s breast. However, you will notice, that it will take a few days for the technique and routine to set itself. There are cases when the child will resist feeding and it is recommended that you take help and guidance of your lactation consultant or pediatrician.
Skin Care
Babies born through labor generally have reddish and slightly swollen skin. The hospital will take care of the baby’s bathing for the first few days, however, soon you - the new mother will have to do it by your self. The baby’s skin is extremely sensitive and prone to infection and will have to be handled gently. Baby clothes need to be extremely soft and light on the skin. They also need to be washed with special detergent. To protect your child from bacterial infection, you can use homemade baby diapers and wipes. These wipes and diapers, if reusable, should be washed in a disinfectant.
As the baby’s skin is not used to sunlight, avoid direct sunlight on the child in the initial days to prevent sunburn or rashes. For the baby’s hair, use special baby shampoo. Buy only tested and tried brands or the ones recommended by your doctor.
When you are in the hospital, your nurse will train you on important aspects of neonatal care – bathing, feeding and changing the diaper. This will give you more confidence when you take your little one home.