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Quick Tips -
Newborn Baby Care
 The
transition in a newborn baby from the intra-uterine life to an
independent existence needs support and care form the mother,
particularly in first two weeks. Unforeseen situations, for
instance, no elderly guidance in nuclear families need to be
tackled proficiently.
Essentially an infant must start breathing within 2 minutes of
birth or else lack of oxygen to brain or lungs may result in fatal
injuries. Within first week after birth, about half of all babies
and large proportion of babies born prematurely develop
physiological jaundice. This kind of jaundice is due to immature
liver, is not serious and has no long-term effects. It is easily
curable by putting the baby under fluorescent lights.
During first week, the cardio pulse is 130-150 times per minute,
which reduces to 90 in week two. Newborn babies sleep for nearly
20 hours, which is normal. Babies can't hear during first two days
of birth. Senses like vision and hearing ability develops in
weeks.
Sterilized clothes should be kept ready for the arrival of the
baby who was in a highly protected and hygienic environment for
about 38-40 weeks. Things like baby-cot, mattress, sheets,
pillows, diapers must be kept ready for the baby to sleep in.
Baby's clothes made of skin friendly cotton, must be washed and
kept separately. Mother nature also provides its own special care
to the newborn baby by the layers of fat under its skin protecting
them from atmosphere. Mild antiseptic detergents and antiseptics
should be used for washing the clothes separately.
Since baby is easily susceptible to infections its better that
only mother handles the baby. Visitors should not cuddle and kiss
baby, as there might be a chance of infection.
The mother should develop a feeding pattern accordingly. As far as
possible baby should not be breastfed at night as it may set an
inconvenient pattern.
Via these simple, easy to remember tips, expectant mothers can
prepare themselves well before the arrival of a new angel
brightens their life.
by Prof.Puja.M (Child care & Nutrition)
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