Neonatal and infant care

Author
Dr. Palak Thakkar
Date Posted
April 30, 2025
Category
Child Care

Hello friends! I am back with another topic. From this chapter onwards I am starting series of topics on kids related issues starting from birth to adolescence.

‍

Neonatal and Infant Care (0–1 year)

1. Neonatal Period: Birth to 28 Days

A. Immediate Care After Birth: This must be taken care at the hospitals at the time of delivery. They are vigilant enough to follow the norms so better not to discuss here. As a parent you should follow the initial advisory given by your neonatologist.

B. Essential Newborn Care

  • Breastfeeding initiation: Within the first hour of life.

  • Rooming-in: Promotes bonding and breastfeeding.

  • Monitoring for jaundice: Especially in the first 7 days.

  • Screenings:
    • Hearing test

    • Congenital anomalies( thyroid dysfunction, heart anomalies, limb diformities,etc.)

    • Supportive care for premature or low birthweight infants, if applicable (NICU support).

2. Infant Care: 1 Month to 1 Year

A. Nutrition

  • Exclusive breastfeeding: Recommended for first 6 months.

  • Formula feeding: If breastfeeding not possible; ensure safe preparation.

  • Complementary feeding: Begin at 6 months with iron-rich foods.

  • Avoid honey before 1 year (risk of botulism).

B. Immunization

  • Follows national schedule (e.g., WHO guidelines).

  • Common vaccines include:
    • BCG (for TB in endemic areas)

    • DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)

    • Polio

    • Hepatitis B

    • MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) – usually after 9–12 months.

C. Growth and Development Monitoring

  • Growth charts: Weight, length, head circumference.

  • Developmental milestones (approximate):
    • 2 months: Smiles, coos, tracks with eyes.

    • 4 months: Holds head steady, rolls front to back.

    • 6 months: Sits with support, babbles.

    • 9 months: Crawls, picks up objects with thumb and finger.

    • 12 months: Stands/walks with support, says simple words.

D. Hygiene and Safety

  • Bathing: Gentle, not daily in early months.

  • Sleep safety: On back, firm surface, no loose bedding.

  • Injury prevention: Baby-proofing, choking hazard removal.

E. Common Conditions

  • Colic, diaper rash, cradle cap, fever, upper respiratory infections.

  • Red flags include:
    • Poor feeding

    • Lethargy

    • Persistent vomiting or diarrhea

    • High fever (>100.4°F / 38°C in infants under 3 months)

3. Parental Support & Education

  • Encourage routine pediatric visits (well-baby checkups).

  • Provide emotional support to caregivers.

  • Educate on signs of illness and when to seek medical help.
  • Promote responsive caregiving and bonding.


After Glimps of care during first year of life…we will discuss in detail about struggles faced by mothers during breast feeding.

           We will meet soon…until then, be happy and become reason for other’s happiness.

‍

Author
Dr. Palak Thakkar