임신출산정보

A New Parent's Guide to Newborn Care

sunny199 2023. 10. 30. 19:30

On July 31, a young couple from Uzbekistan joyfully welcomed a healthy baby boy at our clinic. They confided in us that they were alone in Korea, lacking the presence of family or friends to guide them through their first night together with their newborn. The infant caregivers took great care to equip them with all the essential information for at-home care.
 
 

 
Comprehensive, step-by-step instructions were given to ensure the well-being of their baby, and we wish to share this information for future reference.
 

Precautions for Jaundice

Infants may experience Jaundice from birth up to 7 days. Hence, keeping a bedside light on is crucial to regularly monitor the infant's skin colour.
 
Should you notice yellowing of the baby's skin on their face and chest, vigilant observation is recommended. If the yellow hue begins to extend to the belly button, it is advisable to promptly consult the nearest pediatrician for an evaluation.
 

Umbilical Cord Care

The umbilical cord typically detaches naturally from a newborn within two weeks of birth. After detachment, there might be some yellow discharge and slight bleeding for up to three weeks.
 
If an unpleasant odour emanates from the umbilical cord area, a concerning sign, it is advisable to seek the nearest pediatric care.
      For umbilical cord care following a shower, it is important to disinfect the base of the cord using alcohol-soaked cotton. It's crucial to ensure that the baby's body is thoroughly dried before this step.
 


 

 
 
This is alcohol cotton for immediate use for infants to apply on the umbilical cord base. Available at all pharmacies in Korea. 
 

      To facilitate a speedy healing process, it is vital to ensure the complete dryness of the area. Achieving this involves tucking the waistband of the diaper well below the base of the cord instead of leaving it atop.
 

Infant Fever and Vomiting

Infant fever and vomiting are common occurrences. While it is normal for infants to drool after a meal, persistent vomiting more than once a day could indicate an issue that requires attention.
Monitoring if the temperature falls between 36.5 and 37.0 degrees is advisable. If the temperature reaches 38.0 degrees or higher, for immediate remedy, you can use a fever remedy from the pharmacy and find the paediatrician as soon as possible. 
                                 Feeding
It is of utmost importance to remember that an infant's digestive system functions differently from an adult's. Consequently, it is essential to burp the baby after feeding and refrain from placing them on their back. Instead, it is advisable to tilt them and lean on your chest until the baby burps. When you want to lay the baby down, lay slightly to one side with proper back support with cushions and pillows, followed by rotation to the other.
 
Breast milk production usually starts on the fourth or fifth day after giving birth. Starting with breast milk and then gradually introducing formula can help provide sufficient nourishment at the beginning. 
 

 

Measurement of Formula Powder Quantity

During measurements, it is recommended to use one spoon per 20 ml. Feeding should occur every 3 hours.
2 measured spoons + 40 ml until the 3rd day after birth
2 measured spoons + 50 ml on the 4th / 5th day
3 measured spoons + 60 ml on the 6th / 7th day
During this period, the production of breast milk will likely increase, naturally allowing for a reduction in the volume of formula milk.
 
This information will serve as a valuable resource for the couple as they navigate the care of their precious newborn.