Feeding
Breast feeding takes time and patience. It is normal for an infant to be sleepy in the first 24 hours of life. However, it is still important to put the baby to breast every three hours so that both you and your infant familiarize yourself with this routine. Ask your health care providers to assist you with different ways to hold your baby to make you both comfortable during feeding.
If you are using a bottle, your infant should be held throughout the feeding. That way the baby won’t get too much milk, and he or she will be able to bond with you.
Bathing
When bathing your infant, be sure to stay away from open windows or any type of cold draft. Next, arrange everything that you need nearby, perhaps even having your phone handy so that you do not need to leave your baby unattended. If you do forget something, bring your baby with you! Test the water temperature with your wrist to make sure that it is not too hot. It is okay to tub bathe your infant. Do not use soap on your baby’s face. After the bath, your baby should immediately be dried off and clothed. Lotion and oils are not necessary.
Diapering and Cord Care
Keep the umbilical cord area dry. To avoid contamination, fold the top of the diaper down below the cord. Contact your health care provider is the area around the cord becomes red, or there is foul smelling discharge from the cord. The umbilical cord with dry and fall off within 10 to 14 days.
Sleeping
Newborn babies sleep a lot! It is normal for them to sleep for 16 to 20 hours a day. Take advantage of this time to get some rest! The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all healthy full-term infants sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The AAP also recommends that you do not sleep with your baby in your bed. Infants should be placed on their back, on a firm sleeping surface, in an area free from toys, blankets, and pillows.
Hand Washing
Hand washing is the number one way to protect your baby from germs. Before anyone handles your infant, they should wash their hands or use a hand sanitizer. A healthy baby is a happy baby!