Essential Tips for Newborn Care: Health Signs, Crying, and More

Welcome to the world of the newborn baby! The newborn baby, also called a neonate is a child who is younger than one month old. This remarkable time in life is full of joy, wonder, and mystery as you get to know your tiny bundle of joy. From the moment of birth, your child will be growing and learning, and you will be along for the ride. From their first smiles and coos to their first steps and words, each moment is a milestone. With the help of some tips and advice from experts and experienced parents, this new journey can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Please keep reading for details on the following topics:

Examination of the newborn

Characteristics of the newborn

When do babies cry

Care of the newborn

Follow up visits with the pediatrician

When to seek urgent medical care

INITIAL EXAMINATION OF A NEWBORN

The first examination of a newborn baby is a crucial moment in their life. It is an opportunity for medical professionals to assess the overall health and wellbeing of the baby and ensure they are developing normally. During this examination, doctors and nurses check the baby’s weight, size, reflexes, skin color, and overall health. Hearing tests, blood tests, and other tests may be conducted to assess the baby’s development and to rule out any potential health issues. This initial examination is an essential step in the health and wellbeing of a baby and helps to ensure a healthy start to life. It occurs immediately after birth.

APGAR scoring: Immediately after birth, medical professionals conduct an APGAR score assessment. APGAR stands for Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration. Each category is scored on a scale from 0 to 2, with a maximum score of 10. This assessment helps determine the newborn baby’s overall health and whether any immediate medical intervention is required based on their vital signs and reflexes.
Measurement of Vital Signs: The newborn baby’s temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood sugar levels are measured to ensure they are within normal ranges. This helps assess the baby’s immediate health status and identify any potential issues that may require attention or intervention.
Head-to-Toe Examination: A thorough physical examination is conducted to check for any abnormalities or signs of distress. This examination includes inspecting the skin, head, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, chest, abdomen, genitals, arms, legs, and reflexes. It helps detect any congenital anomalies, injuries, or other health concerns that may need further evaluation or treatment.
Urination and Defecation: Healthcare professionals ensure that the newborn is capable of urinating and defecating normally. This assessment confirms the proper functioning of the baby’s urinary and digestive systems, which are essential for eliminating waste products from the body.
Measurement of Growth Parameters: The newborn baby’s head circumference, weight, and body length are measured and recorded. These measurements are plotted on growth charts to track the baby’s growth and development over time. Monitoring these parameters helps identify any growth abnormalities or concerns that may require further evaluation or intervention.
Application of Antibiotic Ointment: A small amount of antibiotic ointment is applied to the baby’s eyes shortly after birth. This preventive measure helps reduce the risk of eye infections, particularly those caused by bacteria that the baby may be exposed to during delivery.
Administration of Vitamin K Injection: Newborns receive a vitamin K injection shortly after birth to prevent bleeding disorders, particularly bleeding from the umbilical cord. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, and newborns may have low levels at birth, putting them at risk of bleeding complications.
Commencement of Childhood Immunization: The hepatitis B vaccine is typically administered shortly after birth as part of the newborn’s immunization schedule. This vaccine protects against hepatitis B infection, which can cause liver damage and other serious health complications. Starting immunizations early helps provide protection against preventable diseases and ensures the baby’s long-term health and well-being.

THE BABY WILL BE MONITORED FOR

Respiration: This refers to the process of breathing, specifically the intake of oxygen and the release of carbon dioxide by the body. In newborns, respiration is assessed to ensure that the baby is breathing properly and efficiently.
Skin color: Skin color assessment involves observing the newborn baby’s skin tone for any signs of abnormalities such as pallor (pale skin), cyanosis (bluish discoloration indicating poor oxygenation), or jaundice (yellowing of the skin).
Temperature: Checking the baby’s temperature helps to ensure that they are maintaining a stable body temperature, which is crucial for their overall well-being. Newborns are particularly sensitive to temperature changes and need to be kept warm.
The cord to ensure that it is not bleeding: After birth, the umbilical cord stump remains attached to the baby until it naturally falls off, typically within one to two weeks. It’s important to monitor the cord stump to ensure that it is not bleeding excessively, which could indicate an issue with clotting or infection.
Ability to breastfeed: Assessing the baby’s ability to latch onto the breast and suck effectively is essential for ensuring adequate nutrition and hydration. It also promotes bonding between the mother and baby and stimulates milk production.
To ensure that the anus is patent: Checking the anus to ensure it is patent means making sure that it is open and unobstructed, allowing for the passage of stool. A blocked or closed anus can indicate potential issues with the digestive system.
Ability to pass stool within the first 24 hours: It is important for newborns to pass meconium, the dark green or black stool that accumulates in the intestines during fetal development, within the first 24 hours after birth. Failure to do so may indicate a blockage or other medical concerns.
Ability to pass urine within the first 24 to 48 hours: Newborns should produce urine within the first day or two after birth. Monitoring urine output helps to ensure that the baby’s kidneys are functioning properly and that they are adequately hydrated.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A NEWBORN

Sleeps a lot: Newborn babies typically sleep for extended periods, often up to 16-18 hours a day. This extensive sleep is essential for their growth, development, and overall well-being as they adjust to life outside the womb.
Initial weight loss: It’s common for newborns to lose a small amount of weight, usually a few ounces, in the first few days after birth. This weight loss is attributed to the loss of excess fluid and meconium (the baby’s first stool). However, most babies regain this weight by the end of the second week as they start feeding more effectively.
Average weight gain: Newborns usually gain weight at a steady rate. On average, they gain about 0.7 ounces (20 grams) per day or 4 to 8 ounces (113 to 227 grams) per week during the first few months of life. Adequate weight gain is an important indicator of a baby’s health and nutritional status.
Length growth: In addition to weight gain, newborns also experience rapid growth in length during their first month of life. On average, they grow approximately 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.5 centimeters) in length during this period as their bones and muscles develop.
Rapid brain development: The newborn period is a critical time for brain development. Babies’ brains grow and develop at a rapid rate, enabling them to learn and adapt to their environment quickly. This rapid brain development lays the foundation for future cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Sleepy behavior: Newborns often exhibit sleepy behavior and may wake up primarily for feeding or basic care such as diaper changes. Their sleep-wake patterns are still developing, and they may not have established a regular sleep schedule yet.
Pink urine: It’s not uncommon for newborns to pass pink or reddish-colored urine, especially within the first few days of life. This pink tint is typically due to the presence of uric acid crystals in the urine, which are normal and harmless. As the baby’s kidneys mature and function more efficiently, the urine color will return to normal.
Misshaped head: Babies born vaginally may have temporarily misshaped heads due to the pressure exerted during the birthing process. This condition, known as molding, is usually temporary and resolves on its own within a few days to weeks as the baby’s skull bones shift and reshape. It’s a normal part of the newborn adjustment period and rarely causes any long-term issues.

CRYING

The sound of a crying baby is something that can be both heartbreaking and heartwarming. Babies cry for a variety of reasons, from physical discomfort to emotional needs, and understanding the cause of a baby’s crying can help parents provide the best possible care. In addition to helping parents comfort their babies, understanding the reasons behind a baby’s crying can help parents better interact with their little ones and build a stronger bond.

NEWBORNS CRY WHEN

Each cry a newborn makes can convey different needs or discomforts. Here’s an explanation and description of the cry for each of the following situations:

Hungry Cry: When a baby is hungry, their cry may be characterized by a rhythmic pattern, often starting softly and gradually increasing in intensity. It may sound more urgent or persistent compared to other cries. The hungry cry may also be accompanied by sucking motions or rooting reflexes, where the baby turns their head towards the source of food.
Sleepy Cry: A sleepy cry tends to be fussier and more whiny in nature. It may sound tired or lethargic, with intermittent pauses between cries. The baby may rub their eyes, yawn, or show other signs of fatigue. The cry may also be softer or less intense compared to other cries, indicating the baby’s need for rest.
Overstimulated Cry: When a baby is overstimulated, their cry may be frantic or high-pitched. It may sound more frantic or distressed compared to other cries, and the baby may exhibit signs of agitation such as arching their back or flailing their limbs. Overstimulated cries often occur in noisy or chaotic environments and may be accompanied by fussiness or difficulty in soothing the baby.
Cold Cry: A cry due to feeling cold may be accompanied by shivering or trembling movements. The cry may sound more urgent or intense, signaling the baby’s discomfort with the temperature. The baby may also exhibit physical signs of cold, such as pale skin or cold extremities. Providing warmth through swaddling or adjusting the baby’s clothing can help alleviate the discomfort.
Wet Cry: When a baby’s diaper is wet or soiled, their cry may be more persistent or continuous. It may sound uncomfortable or distressed, indicating the need for a diaper change. The cry may also be accompanied by squirming or fussiness, as the baby tries to communicate their discomfort with the wetness.
Lonely Cry: Babies may cry when they feel lonely or in need of comfort and reassurance. The cry may sound more plaintive or melancholic compared to other cries, with longer pauses between cries. The baby may seek physical contact or proximity to a caregiver, such as by reaching out or seeking to be held. Providing comfort, such as cuddling or gentle rocking, can help soothe the baby’s loneliness.
Uncomfortable Cry: When a baby is uncomfortable due to factors like gas, indigestion, or clothing that is too tight, their cry may be more irregular or sporadic. It may sound more strained or grunting, indicating the baby’s discomfort. The cry may also be accompanied by fussiness or wriggling movements as the baby tries to find a more comfortable position. Addressing the underlying cause of discomfort, such as burping the baby or adjusting their clothing, can help alleviate the discomfort and soothe the baby.
Pain Cry: A cry indicating pain is typically sharp, sudden, and intense. It may sound different from the baby’s usual cries and may be accompanied by a tense body posture, facial grimacing, and clenched fists. Pain cries may occur in response to physical discomfort such as gas, teething pain, earaches, or minor injuries.
Colic Cry: Colic cries are often intense, prolonged, and occur at predictable times, such as in the late afternoon or evening. Babies with colic may cry inconsolably for hours despite efforts to soothe them. Colic cries may be accompanied by clenched fists, arching of the back, and a distended abdomen. The exact cause of colic is unknown, but strategies such as gentle rocking, white noise, and abdominal massage may help provide relief for colicky babies.
Frustration Cry: When a baby experiences frustration or difficulty achieving a desired outcome, their cry may be accompanied by grunts, groans, or vocalizations of protest. Frustration cries may occur during tummy time, when trying to grasp objects, or when attempting to communicate needs that are not immediately met. Babies may also exhibit signs of agitation or impatience, such as furrowing their brows or waving their arms in frustration.
Overtired Cry: An overtired cry often occurs when a baby has been awake for an extended period and becomes overstimulated or fatigued. The cry may be continuous, whiny, or moaning in nature. Babies may rub their eyes, yawn excessively, or exhibit jerky movements as they struggle to settle down and fall asleep. Overtired cries can be challenging to soothe and may require a calming bedtime routine to help the baby relax and unwind.
Discomfort Cry: A discomfort cry signals mild discomfort or irritation, such as from tight clothing, an itchy tag, or a bothersome noise. The cry may be accompanied by subtle cues such as squirming, fussiness, or facial expressions of displeasure. Discomfort cries are usually short-lived and may subside once the source of discomfort is addressed, such as adjusting clothing or removing a scratchy fabric.
Attention-seeking Cry: Babies may cry to seek attention or interaction from caregivers, even if they are not experiencing any specific discomfort or need. This cry may be more deliberate and attention-grabbing, with pauses or changes in intensity to gauge the caregiver’s response. Responding to an attention-seeking cry with reassurance and affection can help meet the baby’s need for connection and build a strong bond between caregiver and child.

CARE OF THE NEWBORN

Umbilical Cord Care: It’s important to keep the umbilical cord stump clean and dry to prevent infection. This typically falls within the first week or two after birth as the stump dries out and eventually falls off. Avoid submerging the stump in water and gently clean around it with a soft cloth and warm water if needed.
Feeding Schedule: Newborns should be fed regularly, ideally every 2 to 3 hours, to meet their nutritional needs and promote healthy growth and development. Some babies may need to be gently awakened for feedings, especially if they are sleeping longer stretches than recommended.
Monitoring Feeding: One way to gauge whether a baby is feeding enough is by counting the number of wet diapers they produce. Generally, a newborn should have at least 3 to 6 wet diapers per day during the first month of life, indicating that they are adequately hydrated and receiving sufficient breast milk or formula.
Urine Color: Normal urine color for a baby is typically yellow, similar to that of adults. However, in the first few days after birth, it’s not uncommon for newborns to pass pink-colored urine due to the presence of uric acid crystals, which is normal and harmless. If pink-colored urine persists beyond the third day of life or is accompanied by signs of pain during urination, medical attention may be needed.
Bathing Tips: When bathing a baby, it’s recommended to use mild soap and warm water to gently cleanse their skin. Avoid using lotions or scented products, as they may irritate the baby’s delicate skin. Always supervise baths closely and never leave a baby unattended in a bathtub or on a changing table to prevent accidents.
Bonding Concerns: If a woman feels like she is not bonding with her baby, it’s important for her to seek medical care and support. Bonding with a newborn can take time and may be influenced by various factors such as hormonal changes, childbirth experiences, and mental health. Healthcare professionals can provide guidance and resources to help foster a strong bond between mother and baby.
Safety Precautions: It’s essential to ensure the baby’s safety at all times by avoiding leaving them unattended near pets or young children. Always supervise baths and never leave a baby unattended in a bathtub or on a change table Additionally, dress the baby appropriately to keep them warm, especially covering their head with a hat and dressing them in layers to maintain a comfortable body temperature. When undressing the baby, do so in a warm room free from drafts to prevent them from getting chilled.
Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is highly encouraged as breast milk provides optimal nutrition and numerous health benefits for both the baby and the mother. It’s recommended to breastfeed exclusively for the first six months of life, as breast milk contains essential nutrients and antibodies that support the baby’s immune system and overall health.
Avoiding Smoke and Sunlight: It’s important to protect the baby from exposure to smoke and direct sunlight, as both can have harmful effects on their health. Avoid smoking around the baby and keep them away from secondhand smoke. Additionally, limit the baby’s exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak hours, and use appropriate sun protection measures such as hats and lightweight clothing.

DANGER SIGNS IN A NEWBORN

As a new parent, it is important to be aware of the signs of a potential danger in your newborn. From skin color changes to breathing difficulties, it is important to know the signs of a medical emergency and when to seek medical attention. This section will provide an overview of the common danger signs in a newborn to help you stay alert and informed.

Difficulty feeding (sucking): This could indicate various issues such as improper latch, tongue-tie, or underlying medical conditions that affect the baby’s ability to suck effectively, leading to inadequate feeding and potential feeding difficulties.
Low activity: Newborns are generally expected to be active and responsive, so low activity levels may be a cause for concern. It could be a sign of illness, infection, or other underlying health issues that require attention.
Temperature too low or too high: Maintaining a stable body temperature is crucial for newborns. An abnormally low (hypothermia) or high (hyperthermia) temperature may indicate an underlying health problem, infection, or difficulty regulating body temperature, requiring prompt evaluation and intervention.
Breathing too fast or too slowly: Irregular breathing patterns, such as rapid breathing (tachypnea) or slow breathing (bradypnea), can be indicative of respiratory distress, lung problems, or other medical conditions requiring medical attention.
Grunting sounds made by a newborn during breathing could suggest respiratory distress or difficulty in expelling air from the lungs, potentially indicating an underlying lung or respiratory issue.
Flaring of the nose: Flaring of the nostrils during breathing can be a sign of respiratory distress, indicating that the baby is working harder to breathe. It may suggest an obstruction in the airway or lung problems.
Seizures in newborns can manifest as abnormal movements, staring spells, or changes in consciousness. They may be caused by various factors such as brain injury, infection, or metabolic disorders and require immediate medical attention.
Persistent vomiting or green vomit / abdominal distention (swelling of the abdomen) in newborns, especially if it is persistent or accompanied by green vomit may indicate gastrointestinal issues such as intestinal blockage, infection, or other digestive problems that need evaluation and treatment.

APGAR SCORING OF THE NEWBORN

APGAR scoring is a quick assessment used to evaluate the health of a newborn baby shortly after birth. Developed by an anesthesiologist, Dr. Virginia Apgar, in 1952, the APGAR scoring system is used by medical professionals to assess a newborn’s health and determine the need for any immediate medical intervention. The score is based on the baby’s heart rate, breathing, muscle tone, reflexes, and the baby’s skin color. Each of these five criteria are assessed in a one-minute period, and the score is based on a scale of 0 to 10, with 10 being the highest score. A score of 7 or above is generally considered to be normal and healthy.

At the follow up visits with the pediatricians

Measurement and Comparison: The healthcare provider will measure the baby’s weight, length, and head size and compare them with previous measurements to track growth and development over time.
Physical Examination: The doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination of the baby to check for any signs of illness, developmental issues, or abnormalities.
Assessment of Reflexes and Interaction: The baby’s reflexes will be assessed to ensure they are developing appropriately. Additionally, the interaction between the mother and baby will be observed to assess bonding and attachment.
Interview About Eating and Sleeping Habits: The healthcare provider will interview the mother about the baby’s eating and sleeping habits to ensure they are meeting developmental milestones and getting adequate nutrition and rest.
Immunization Schedule: A schedule of immunizations will be provided to the mother to inform her about the vaccines the baby will receive throughout childhood. This helps sensitize and prepare the mother for upcoming vaccinations to protect the baby from preventable diseases.
Diagnostic Tests: If necessary, additional diagnostic tests may be ordered to further evaluate any concerns identified during the physical examination or interview. These tests help diagnose any underlying health issues and guide appropriate treatment.

WHEN TO SEEK URGENT MEDICAL CARE FOR A NEWBORN

It is important to know when to seek urgent medical care, as delaying appropriate treatment can lead to further health complications. If your baby experiences any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical help immediately. If you have any doubts about whether you should seek medical care, it is always better to err on the side of caution and consult with your doctor.

Difficulty in breathing: breathing too slowly or too rapidly

Seizures

Fever

Extreme cold

Bleeding from the umbilical stump

Difficulty or poor feeding

Feeding less than 8 times throughout one day

Yellow tint to the eyes, skin, palms and soles of feet

Baby not breathing

Baby cries unconsolably

The baby’s skin turns blue

Diarrhea

Pus oozing from the eyes, skin or umbilical cord stump

White patches in the mouth

Few wet diapers

Constipation

Jaundice

Strange cry

Bleeding from the circumcision site

Disclaimer: The information provided in this content is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical or healthcare advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or healthcare decisions. newborn newborn newborn newborn newborn newborn newborn newborn newborn newborn