Newborn babies are entirely dependent on their caregivers. They cannot feed or clean themselves and rely on their parents for everything. This can be a daunting time for new parents, who may constantly worry about their baby’s health.
Children are fragile and vulnerable, so parents must be aware of the potential dangers that could threaten their health. They need to recognize the signs and symptoms of illness and know when to seek medical help. During delivery or shortly afterward, babies are routinely checked for any problems. However, it is still essential for parents to be vigilant and watch out for any changes in their baby’s health.
Here are some tips on how parents can be cautious about their newborn’s health:
- Birth injury prevention
During delivery, the baby and the mother are at risk of injury. To avoid any complications, make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions and have a safe delivery.
However, in many instances, your child can suffer from an injury or a health problem that is not immediately obvious. The condition known as newborn hematoma is one example, in which a blood vessel bursts and causes a large, raised bruise. This can happen during delivery if the baby is delivered by forceps or vacuum. This condition is not always apparent because the bruise may not appear until a few days after birth. Therefore, you must check your baby’s entire body for any bruising or swelling. The doctor may be liable if this condition is not diagnosed and treated promptly. You can consult a medical negligence lawyer to see if you have a case.
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- Keep your baby’s sleeping area clean and free from clutter.
The crib or bassinet should only have a fitted sheet and nothing else. No pillows, quilts, stuffed animals, or other objects that could increase the risk of suffocation or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Besides the crib, your baby should sleep in a safe place like a Moses basket, playpen, or Pack ‘n Play. It will benefit both you and your baby to establish a regular sleep routine from an early age. However, do not put your baby in their bed to sleep if they cannot sit up unaided or rollover.
- Use a car seat
When transporting your baby in a car, ensure they are properly secured in a car seat. The car seat should be appropriate for your baby’s weight and height and properly installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It is best to keep your baby in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible. Once they outgrow the car seat, they can use a booster seat. Most importantly, never leave your baby alone in the car, even for a short period. Remember, the car can heat up quickly, and babies cannot sweat to cool themselves down.
- Preventing falls
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in babies and young children. Never leave your baby unattended on a raised surface, such as a bed, changing table, or sofa, to prevent falls. When carrying your baby, make sure to support their head and back. Never carry them while climbing stairs or doing any other activities that could put them at risk of falling. Moreover, childproof your home to make it safe for them to explore. Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs, and put up barriers around any dangerous areas, such as the kitchen or bathroom.
- Be cautious when using baby products
Many baby products on the market are not regulated and may not be safe for your child. Be cautious when using any product on your baby, including lotions, powders, and creams. In general, it is best to avoid using any type of product on your newborn unless it is recommended by a healthcare professional. For instance, baby powder is not recommended for babies because it can cause respiratory problems. In addition, be careful when using essential oils around your baby. However, dilute essential oils properly and only use a small amount if you want to use essential oils. Leaving your infant unsupervised with any product they could put in their mouth and choke on, such as lotion or cream, is never advisable.
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Cigarette smoke is extremely harmful to babies and young children. It increases the risk of SIDS, respiratory problems, ear infections, and other health problems. If you smoke, the best thing you can do for your baby is to quit. If you cannot quit, do not smoke inside the house. In addition, avoid being around people who are smoking. If breastfeeding, avoid smoking because it can pass harmful chemicals to your baby through your breast milk. For instance, nicotine can cause irritability, poor feeding, and weight loss in babies.
- Be cautious when using social media
Many parents love sharing photos and videos of their babies on social media. While nothing is wrong with this, it is important to be cautious about the amount of information you share. For instance, avoid sharing photos that include your baby’s full name, birth date, or home address. In addition, think carefully before sharing photos of your baby that could potentially embarrass them when they are older. Remember, once you post something on social media, it is there for everyone to see. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of what you share.
- Establishing a routine
Babies thrive on routine. It helps them feel safe and secure. Therefore, it is important to establish a daily routine for your baby. This can include set times for feeding, napping, and playing. Of course, your baby’s routine will change as they grow older. However, the basic structure of a routine can remain the same. Having a routine can also make it easier for you to care for your baby. For instance, if you know your baby will be hungry every three hours, you can plan accordingly. Moreover, a routine can help your baby sleep through the night.
Summary
As a parent, it is vital to keep your baby safe. There are many ways to do this, including never leaving them unattended, childproofing your home, and being cautious when using baby products. In addition, avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, and be mindful of what you share on social media. Finally, establishing a routine can help your baby feel secure and may make it easier for you to care for them.
