Bathing a Baby
Bathing is an essential part of our daily routine, yet it is often overlooked and taken for granted. Have you ever stopped to think about the benefits of taking a bath or shower? From relaxation to hygiene, there are numerous reasons why we should prioritize this daily ritual. In this section, we will explore the importance of bathing of the newborn baby. So, grab a towel and let’s dive in! Please keep reading for details on the following topics:
Overview of bathing of the newborn
How to bathe a baby
OVERVIEW OF BATHING OF THE NEW BORN
Newborn babies are bathed to prevent transmitting certain infectious diseases acquired from the mother’s amniotic fluid
The waxy white substance found covering the skin of newborn babies is called vernix caseosa and should not be washed off because it moisturizes the baby’s skin and prevents infections
Babies may be bathed about three times weekly to prevent the skin from getting too dry, sponge baths may be given
Wait until the stomach settles to bathe baby to avoid drowning
Avoid leaving baby unattended in the water, to avoid rolling, falling or drowning
In order to maintain baby’s warmth, be sure to expose only the parts of the body being washed
Dry each area immediately after they are washed to prevent heat loss
HOW TO BATHE A BABY
Ensure that the room is warm and free from air currents such as an opened window, air conditioning or fan
Select a flat surface such as a counter top or the floor and covered with a towel
Gather all supplies needed such as fragrance-free soap, clothing, wash cloth, diaper, wipes, blanket and basin
Pour water warm enough for baby into the basin and
Wrap baby in a towel and lay him/her on the flat surface, on the back
Using only plain water, wet and squeeze the wash cloth and clean the eyes from corner to corner
Pat dry the eyelids
Clean the mouth, then the face and ears
Clean the exterior part of baby’s ears with extra caution to avoid water from entering the ears, pat dry
With gentle care, being sure to block the ears to prevent water from entering the ears, bend baby’s head over the water and wash the hair, pat dry thoroughly
Wet hands and apply soap to same
Rubs hands together to make a soapy lather
Rub the soap all over the baby’s body: to the creases under the arms, around the neck and over the chest and back, over the buttocks, around the legs and between the toes
Whilst supporting the baby’s head and neck with the nondominant hand and the body with the dominant hand, place baby into the bath, feet first, to rise out the soap
Keep baby’s head and neck above water at all times to avoid drowning
Transfer baby from the water to a clean towel and pat dry thoroughly
Dress baby by placing the pamper then hat, vest, socks and the remaining clothing