PRINCIPLES OF NEWBORN CARE
❑Keep the baby always clothed or covered as much as possible, including during procedures
(e.g. when changing diapers):
❑-Clothe the baby and cover the head with a cap or hat.
❑Wrap the baby in a soft dry cloth and cover with a blanket
❑Uncover only parts of the body that need to be cleaned.
❑Care for a sick or small baby in a warm room (not less than 25 0 C) that is free of draughts.
❑Do not place the baby near cold objects, such as a wall or window, even if the baby is near
a lamp.
❑Do not place the baby directly on a cold surface (e.g. place a cloth or blanket under the
baby before placing on a cold basin for bath), and ensure that hands are warm before
handling the baby
❑. Keep the baby warm during travel.
❑Ensure warmth during procedures (e.g. bathing, changing diaper).
❑Change diapers whenever they are wet.
❑If anything wet is applied to the skin (e.g. moistened gauze), ensure that the baby is kept
warm.
❑Avoid bathing the baby until the baby's temperature is stable; delay bathing a small baby
until at least the seventh day of life.
◦The "3-3-3 Rule"It is especially focused on helping parents understand how
to approach infant sleep, feeding, and care routines.
Here’s a breakdown of the "3-3-3 Rule":
◦3 hours: A newborn baby typically needs to be fed every 3 hours during the
day and night. This is because their stomachs are small, and they need
frequent feedings to grow and thrive.
◦3 days: The rule suggests that if a new parent is struggling with something,
such as a baby's sleep pattern or feeding routine, it often takes about 3 days
for things to settle and establish a new rhythm. It encourages parents to give
things time and to remain patient as the baby adjusts.
◦3 weeks: Around 3 weeks of age, babies may experience growth spurts or
shifts in their patterns, which might require more frequent feeding or more
attention. The 3-week mark can also coincide with the beginning of more
consistent sleep routines or behavior changes.
◦Remembering a “3-3-3-3” rule can help you determine if you have a colicky
baby on your hands. Colicky babies are less than three months old, cry at
least three hours at a time, three days a week for three consecutive weeks.
Lindgren says, “Generally, colic occurs at a predictable time of day.
MEASURING BODY
TEMPERATURE
◦Small babies are less than 2.5 kg at birth or born
before 37 weeksgestation. a very small babies
are less than 1.5 kg at birth or born before 32
weeksgestation
METHODS TO
KEEP THE BABY
WARM
1.Skin-to-Skin Contact (Kangaroo Care)
Place the baby on the caregiver's bare chest, covered with a
warm blanket.
Helps regulate the baby’s temperature, heart rate, and
breathing.
2.Proper Clothing
Dress the infant in layers, including:
◦Undershirt or onesie
◦Long-sleeved outfit
◦Socks or booties
◦Cap or hat (especially to prevent heat loss from the head)
◦Swaddling
3.Wrap the baby snugly (but not too tightly) in a soft blanket.
Ensures warmth and a sense of security.
4.Use of a Blanket or Sleep Sack
Use sleep sacks (wearable blankets) instead of loose blankets
to reduce the risk of suffocation.
5. Warm Room Temperature
◦Keep the room between 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 78°F).
◦Avoid overheating; use a thermometer to monitor room
temperature.
6. Avoid Drafts and Direct Cold Exposure
◦Keep the baby away from windows, fans, or air
conditioners.
7. Warm Bedding
◦Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet—no loose bedding
or pillows.
◦Pre-warm the bed with a hot water bottle (remove it before
placing the baby in the crib).
8. Check Baby’s Extremities
◦Hands and feet should feel warm, not cold or sweaty.
◦If they are cold, add mittens or adjust clothing layers.
9. Cover the Head
◦Babies lose a lot of heat through their heads—use a soft
cotton cap especially in cooler environments.
10. Hold the Baby Often
◦Your body warmth can help regulate the baby’s temperature,
especially in colder settings.
FEEDING AND FLUID MANAGEMENT
Types of Feeding
Breastfeeding
◦Recommended exclusively for the first 6 months of life.
◦Provides ideal nutrition and antibodies.
◦Easy to digest and helps with bonding.
Formula Feeding
◦Used when breastfeeding is not possible or supplemented.
◦Must follow proper preparation guidelines to avoid contamination or incorrect concentration.
Complementary Feeding
◦Begins at 6 months while continuing breastfeeding.
◦Introduce soft, mashed foods gradually.
BABY'S MILK CHART
General Principles
Of BreastFeeding
1. Exclusive for the First 6 Months
◦The infant receives only breast milk—no other food or drink, not even water.
◦Exception: prescribed oral rehydration salts, drops/syrups of vitamins,
minerals, or medicines.
2. Initiate Early
◦Breastfeeding should begin within the first hour of birth to promote bonding
and stimulate milk production.
◦Breast milk contains the exact nutrients the baby needs and promotes the baby's
development. Breast milk is easily digested and efficiently used by the baby's
body.
◦Breast milk protects the baby from infection;
◦Breastfeeding can be used as a contraceptive method (lactational amenorrhea
method).
3. On-Demand Feeding
◦Feed the baby whenever they show signs of hunger, day and night.
◦No fixed schedule; infants may feed 8–12 times per 24 hours.
◦Encourage the mother to breastfeed the baby on demand, both day and night (eight or more times in
24 hours), for as long as the baby wants.
◦Have the mother offer the second breast once the baby releases the first breast on her/his own.
◦Advise the mother that she should not
◦-Force the baby to feed;
◦-interrupt a feed before the baby is done;
4. Proper latching and Positioning
◦Ensure the baby latches properly to avoid nipple soreness and ensure efficient milk transfer.
◦Good positioning promotes comfort and effective feeding.
5. No Artificial Nipples or Pacifiers
◦Avoid pacifiers and bottle nipples during the exclusive breastfeeding period to prevent nipple
confusion.
6. Adequate Milk Supply
◦Frequent and effective breastfeeding stimulates and maintains a sufficient milk supply.
7. Continued Breastfeeding
◦After 6 months, continue breastfeeding up to 2 years or beyond, along with
appropriate complementary foods.
8. Mother’s Nutrition and Hydration
◦The mother's health, diet, and hydration status directly affect milk quality and
quantity.
◦Encourage a balanced diet and adequate fluid intake.
9. Support and Education
◦Mothers need emotional, social, and professional support to succeed in
exclusive breastfeeding.
◦Health workers should provide guidance, especially in the early postpartum
period.
10. Avoid Substitutes Unless Medically Indicated
◦Infant formula or other milk should only be given when medically necessary or
when the mother cannot breastfeed.
Wiping the
nipple before
breastfeeding
1.Hygiene: can accumulate sweat, oils, or any other substances
(like lotion, deodorant, or residue from breast pads) that might
irritate the baby's skin or lead to infection. Wiping the area with
a clean, damp cloth can help ensure that the baby isn’t exposed
to any of these substances while breastfeeding.
2.Prevention of Milk Crusting or Clogged Pores: Sometimes,
milk can dry and form a crust around the nipple, which could
block the milk ducts and lead to discomfort or even mastitis
(inflammation of the breast tissue). Gently wiping the nipple can
help keep the area clean and prevent any buildup.
3.Comfort: If there's any dried milk or excess moisture on the
nipple or areola, it can cause discomfort for the mother when
breastfeeding. Wiping the nipple can remove excess moisture
and make breastfeeding more comfortable.
4.Baby's Preference: Some babies may be sensitive to tastes or
odors, and they may refuse to latch if there’s a strong smell, like
from lotion or deodorant. Wiping the nipple ensures that there’s
no foreign scent that could distract the baby.
Correct
positioning
NUTRIENTS
IN
BREASTMILK
1. Immunological Protection
◦Antibodies (IgA, IgG, IgM): Breast milk contains a
high concentration of immunoglobulins, especially
IgA, which helps protect infants from infections by
lining the mucous membranes in the gut,
respiratory tract, and other areas. Formula lacks
these antibodies, meaning infants who are formula-
fed don’t receive the same level of immune
protection.
◦Live White Blood Cells: Breast milk contains live
white blood cells (leukocytes), which help protect
against infections and inflammation. Formula does
not contain these live cells.
◦Lactoferrin: This protein binds iron and has
antimicrobial properties, supporting the immune
system and helping to protect against harmful
bacteria and infections.
2. Beneficial Bacteria (Prebiotics and Probiotics)
◦Prebiotics: Breast milk contains oligosaccharides,
complex sugars that act as prebiotics, promoting
the growth of beneficial bacteria (like
Bifidobacteria) in the infant's gut. This helps
establish a healthy microbiome, which plays a
crucial role in digestion, immune function, and the
development of the gut lining. Formula lacks these
specific prebiotic oligosaccharides.
◦Probiotics: Breast milk contains living probiotics,
such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria, which
help establish and support a healthy gut flora that
is important for digestion and immune function.
3. Growth Factors
◦Growth Factors: Breast milk contains various growth factors like
epidermal growth factor (EGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF), and
transforming growth factor (TGF). These help promote the
development and maturation of the baby’s gut, brain, and immune
system. These growth factors are more bioavailable in breast milk and
play a critical role in infant development.
◦Brain Development: Breast milk provides essential fats like DHA
(docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid), which are critical
for the development of the brain and nervous system. While formulas
can be fortified with DHA and ARA, the forms in breast milk are more
easily absorbed and utilized by infants.
◦4. Bioavailability and Absorption
◦Enzymes: Breast milk contains enzymes such as lipase, which
helpsbreakdown fats for better digestion and absorption. The
enzymecontentin breast milk also supports the infant’s digestive
process,makingthe nutrients more accessible and easier to absorb than
informula.
◦Easily Digestible Proteins: The proteins in breast milk (casein
andwhey) are present in an optimal ratio that makes them easier for
theinfantto digest. The whey protein in breast milk is more
easilyabsorbedcompared to the protein in formula, which can be
harder on anewborn'simmature digestive system.
5. Hormones and Growth Factors
◦Hormones: Breast milk contains hormones such as leptin and
ghrelin, which regulate appetite and help the baby develop healthy
eating habits. These hormones are important for regulating energy
balance and metabolism, but they are not present in formula.
◦Thyroid Hormones: These hormones support the infant's
development and growth, particularly for brain development. The
presence of these hormones in breast milk cannot be replicated in
formula.
6. Tailored Composition
◦Dynamic Composition: The composition of breast milk changes over
time to meet the growing infant's needs. For example, the amount of
fat and protein increases as the baby grows, and the concentration of
antibodies is highest in colostrum (the early milk produced after
birth). This ability to tailor itself to the infant’s developmental stage
is unique to breast milk, while formula is static and does not adjust
to the baby’s changing needs.
7. Fewer Allergens
◦Less Likely to Cause Allergies: Breast milk contains
factors that help modulate the infant’s immune
response and reduce the risk of allergies. For example,
it helps in the development of oral tolerance to potential
allergens. Formula-fed babies may have a higher risk of
developing allergies, particularly to proteins in cow’s
milk or soy-based formulas.
8. Protective Against Chronic Diseases
◦Long-term Health Benefits: Research has shown that
infants who are breastfed are less likely to develop
chronic diseases later in life, such as obesity, type 2
diabetes, and asthma. Breast milk’s unique
combination of nutrients, growth factors, and
immunological properties contribute to these long-term
health benefits.
Role of
Prebiotics and
Probiotics in
Infant Health
◦Gut Microbiome Development: The combination of
prebiotics (like HMOs) and probiotics (such as
Bifidobacteriumand Lactobacillus) in breast milk plays a
key role in the early development of the infant’s gut
microbiota. This helps establish a foundation for a healthy
digestive system and a strong immune response.
◦Immune System Support: The beneficial bacteria in breast
milk help regulate the infant's immune system, promoting
the development of a balanced immune response and
protecting against infections.
◦Protection from Pathogens: HMOs and other prebiotic
compounds can prevent the adhesion of harmful pathogens
to the gut lining, reducing the risk of infections.
◦Digestive Health: The probiotics in breast milk support the
digestion of complex nutrients and the production of
beneficial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, which
nourish the cells of the gut.
Benefits of
Breast Feeding
For Infants
◦Optimal Nutrition:
Breast milk provides the ideal balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals,
crucial for the infant’s growth and development. It adapts over time to meet the evolving nutritional
needs of the growing baby.
◦Immune Protection:
Rich in antibodies like immunoglobulin A (IgA), breast milk helps protect infants from infections,
boosting their immune system by fighting off harmful bacteria, viruses, and pathogens.
◦Digestive Health:
Beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacteriumand Lactobacillusfound in breast milk promote a
healthy gut microbiota, enhancing digestion and reducing issues like diarrhea and constipation.
Prebiotics, including human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), also support the growth of good
bacteria, aiding digestion and immune function.
◦Reduced Risk of Allergies:
Exclusive breastfeeding during the early months helps reduce the risk of allergies, asthma, and
eczema later in life by supporting the proper development of the immune system.
◦Protection Against Chronic Diseases:
Resear ch sugge sts that brea stfeeding m ay lower the r isk of chronic conditions suc h as obesity, diabetes, and certain cancers.Breastfed babies typically exhibit healthier weight gain patterns and
a reduce d risk of m eta bolic diseases.
◦Brain Developmen t:
Fatty acids in breast milk, particularly docosahe xae noic acid (DHA), are esse ntial for brain and ner vous system development. Studie s show that breastfed infa nts tend to have higher I Qs and
enhanc ed cognitive abilities.
◦Bet ter Vision:
The fatty acids and antioxidants in breast milk contribute to the hea lthy developm ent of the e yes, le ading to improved visionininf anc y.
◦Lower Risk of Sudd en Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS):
Bre astfee ding is assoc iated with a reduc ed risk of S IDS , potentia lly due to imm une benefits and the bonding e xperience duringnursing.
◦Reduce d Risk of In fections:
Infants who are br eastfe d have lower ra tes of ear infections, re spiratory infections, and gastrointestinal inf ections due to theimmune fa ctors in breast milk.
◦Con ven ien ce and Cost-Eff ective ness:
Bre ast m ilk is always availa ble a t the r ight tem pe rature , without the need for prepara tion, making it a more conve nient and cost-eff ective f eeding option compare d to form ula.
For Mother
◦Faster Postpartum Recovery:
Breastfeeding helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size, reduces postpartum bleeding, and stimulates the release of
oxytocin, which aids uterine contraction and enhances bonding with the baby.
◦Weight Loss:
The extra calories burned during breastfeeding assist mothers in returning to their pre-pregnancy weight more easily.
◦Lower Risk of Certain Cancers:
Breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancers due to the hormonal changes during lactation.
◦Improved Bone Health:
Breastfeeding has been linked to a lower risk of osteoporosis and fractures in later life due to the hormonal changes that
improve bone density.
◦Emotional and Psychological Benefits:
The act of breastfeeding strengthens the emotional bond between mother and child and helps alleviate stress. It may also
reduce the risk of postpartum depression by promoting the release of oxytocin and other mood-enhancing hormones.
◦Natural Birth Control:
Exclusive breastfeeding can delay the return of menstruation and serve as a natural form of birth control (though not fully
reliable) due to hormonal changes that suppress ovulation.
◦Cost Savings:
Since breast milk is free and does not require the purchase of formula or other feeding supplies, it offers significant savings for
families
NEWBORN GROWTH SPURT
You may notice that your baby sometimes wants to
eat more often or a larger amount than normal.
This usually happens when a child is growing
rapidly. Your child may go through growth spurts
around these ages:
◦7-14 days
◦3-6 weeks
◦4 months
◦6 months
HOW TO GIVE BATH
TO NEW BORN
https://youtu.be/7yxd25nZMaE?si=dF4TX8rrRlch_EeO
BATHING STEP BY STEP
1.Lay everything you’ll need out next to the bath so you can easily reach
it.
2.Pop your baby bath inside your bath to reduce splashing.
3.Fill the bath with about three inchesof lukewarmwater. It’s important
to keep the water cool enough that your baby won’t get scalded, but hot
enough that it keeps them warm, so 37Cis often considered the best
baby bath temperature.
4.Test the water temperature before you put your baby in. Traditional
methods such as using your wrist or elbow can be a good indicator, but
a thermometer is a useful way to ensure you get it spot on.
5.Gently lower baby into the water to let them get used to it and support
their head and shoulders with one arm at all times when bathing.
6.Start by cleaning your baby’s face with a washcloth or cotton wool
7.Wash their hair and body gently. Ideally you should just use water for
the first month
5
. After that you can start using a gentle soap and a clean,
soft cloth. Rinse off using a jug and clean water. It’s worth washing hair at
the end of bathtime so baby doesn’t get cold.
8.Carefully swish the water around your baby without splashing.
9. Be sure to pay special attention to the creases and folds in their skin
where dirt can easily get trapped.
10. As soon as they’re out of the bath, wrap your baby in a soft towel to
keep them warm and dry them gently as soon as you can, patting them
dry, starting with their hair and face.
11. After a bath is a great time to give your baby a massage with a gentle
moisturizer such to keep their delicate skin smooth and soft.
HOW TO CLEAN EAR
WAX
◦Earwax usually makes its way to the open end of the ear
naturally.
◦You can gently wipe it away with a damp cloth when you
are cleaning your baby's ears.
◦Do not insert a cotton bud, finger or pointed object into
your baby's ears.
◦You should also avoid using remedies to remove ear wax.
◦Your baby’s ears will be very sensitive, so be gentle when
cleaning them and take care to never put anything inside
their ears.
◦Use a damp cotton pad to wipe around the outside and
gently remove any dirt or excess wax.
DIAPER
CARE OF
YOUR
INFANT
◦Keep the diaper area clean by washing gently with a clean
washcloth using baby soap and warm water. Be sure to rinse off
all the soap and allow the area to dry before putting on a new
diaper. Note: diaper wipes may be irritating to your baby’s skin.
◦• For boys -lift the scrotum and wash all the skin folds carefully
with warm water. If your baby is not circumcised, do not pull
back the foreskin. This is not only painful for your baby but can
cause an infection.
◦• For girls-Always wipe gently from front to back to avoid
spreading bacteria into the vaginal area. Use a clean cloth with
each wipe. Separate the skin folds and wash gently with plain
warm water.
◦• Remember to always wash your hands before and after
changing a diaper.
◦If you would like to have your baby boy circumcised, please tell
his doctor
UMBILICAL
CORD CARE
◦Keep the umbilical cord clean and dry
◦• Clean around the base of the cord several
times a day with a cotton ball and water.
◦Note: It is no longer recommended to use
alcohol on the cord.
◦• Keep the diaper below the cord until it
falls off and there is no drainage.
◦• The cord should fall off in about 7 to 14
days.
◦Watch for any of these signs of infection. If
any are present, call your doctor:
◦• Redness
◦• Swelling
◦• Tenderness
◦• Yellow or green drainage, or a foul smell
5 S METHOD
TO PUT BABY
TO SLEEP
-is a popular sleep method created by pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp to help calm babies and
encourage them to fall asleep more easily.
-These techniques are designed to mimic the soothing sensations that babies experience in the
womb, helping them feel secure and comfortable. Here are the 5 S's:
1.Swaddle: Wrap your baby snugly in a blanket (with their arms down and the blanket
securely tucked around them). Swaddling mimics the confined space of the womb, which can
help babies feel more secure and calm.
2.Side or Stomach (Temporarily): Holding your baby on their side or stomach (only while you
are holding them, not for sleep) can help calm them. This position is often soothing for
babies, but it should never be used for sleeping due to the risk of SIDS. Always place babies
on their backs to sleep.
3.Shush: Make a "shushing" sound, mimicking the noise they heard in the womb. This sound is
comforting to babies and can help soothe them. You can make the noise yourself or use a
white noise machine to provide a continuous, calming sound.
4.Swing: Gently rock, sway, or swing your baby. The rhythmic motion of being rocked or
swung mimics the movement they experienced while in the womb, which can help calm
them and encourage sleep.
5.Suck: Allow your baby to suck on a pacifier, finger, or your breast (if nursing). Sucking is a
natural soothing mechanism for babies and can help them relax and drift off to sleep.
NORMAL FOR
NEWBORN
1.Breathing noises
Newborns tend to have an irregular breathing pattern that
alternates between fast and slow, with occasional pauses.
-Whistling noise: A small blockage in the nostrils tends to
make a whistling noise that clears when you suction it out.
Newborn babies breathe out of their noses, not their mouths.
This is a good trick, as it allows them to breathe and eat at the
same time.
However, their little noses have small air passages, so a little
bit of mucus or dried milk
can make the breathing passage even smaller, causing a
whistling noise or occasionally,
difficulty moving the air in and out.
REFLEXES PRESENT AT BIRTH
Reflex Normal Response
Moro Reflex Startle with arm extension and cry
Rooting Reflex Turns head toward touch on cheek
Sucking Reflex Begins to suck when mouth is touched
Palmar Grasp Grasps object in hand
Babinski Reflex Toes fan out when sole is stroked
Tonic Neck Reflex "Fencing" posture when head turned