If you’re a new mom or dad, you probably have only one main concern—the health of your newborn. It’s only natural to worry. But, one way you can decrease any worries is to arm yourself with information. Learn what symptoms to be on alert for and when to get medical care.
Get accustomed to your newborn’s usual routine. For example, how often does he eat and sleep? How many times do you usually need to change his diaper in one day? How does he normally respond to you? Your baby’s typical behavior will help you to determine if he is feeling fine or if something is wrong.
Also, go with your instinct. If you think your baby may be ill, call the doctor right away. It is common for parents of newborns to call the pediatrician with questions and concerns. So, don’t hesitate to get expert advice.
You will feel more in control if you already have the following medical information close at hand:
The name of your newborn’s doctor and the phone numberThe doctor’s office hours and on-call hoursInstructions as to what to do during after-hoursLocation of the hospital that the doctor is affiliated withThe name, phone number, and location of the pharmacy that you useIf you do need to call the doctor, be prepared for any questions that you may be asked, such as:
What are your newborn’s symptoms?What is his temperature? (Note: Rectal thermometers are typically used with newborns.)How many bowel movements has he had? Does he have loose stools? How many wet diapers has he had?What vaccines has your newborn had? Are they up-to-date?Does he have any allergies or conditions?Does your newborn take any medicine? If so, what kind of medicine and what is the dose?Also, keep in mind that you may need to write down any instructions that the nurse or doctor gives you. So, have a pen and paper handy.
Another way you can be prepared is by learning first aid and CPR for infants. The hospital may offer these classes or you can check online (eg, American Red Cross or the American Heart Association).
Call the doctor if your newborn:
Has a coughHas any eye problems (eg, mucus or redness)Has a runny nose, which can make it difficult for your newborn to breath Note: You can use a rubber bulb aspirator to clear the mucus from his nose.Is vomitingIs eating less than usual or is having problems with breastfeeding (eg, difficulty latching onto the nipple)Is not moving his bowels Has stools that are looser than normalIs crying more than usual and is unable to be soothedHas problems sleeping Has blood or pus on his navel or penisHas a rashHas drainage coming from his earIs not responding to soundsIf your newborn has any of the following, call your doctor immediately:
Rectal temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) Rectal temperature below 97.8°F (36.5°C)Any breathing problems, like difficulty breathing or fast breathing Other signs of not getting enough oxygen, like blue lips or fingernailsExtreme tiredness or drowsiness, difficulty awakeningIs limpSigns of dehydration (wetting less than six diapers in 24 hours, sunken eyes, sunken soft spot, no tears when crying)Soft spot on the top of the head looks swollenSeizureYellowish skin or eyesBloody urine, stool, or vomitInjury to any part of the body, especially the headIf you are extremely concerned and you think the situation is an emergency, call 911 to have an ambulance come.
You can care for your newborn’s health by knowing which symptoms to watch out for and by being prepared if medical care is needed. Remember that many moms and dads have felt the same way you do and have reached out for help and guidance from doctors and nurses. If at any time you feel concerned about your little one’s health, call the doctor.