Question

Discuss five (5) safety tips when caring for a newborn that should be reinforced with parents before discharge.

Answer 1

1. Keep the baby safe while sleeping: It is important to place the baby on their back to sleep, on a firm and flat surface free of any soft objects or loose bedding. This can help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
2. Follow safe feeding practices: It is important to follow proper feeding techniques and to ensure that the baby is getting enough nutrition. This may include breastfeeding or using formula, and it is important to follow proper hygiene practices to prevent contamination.
3. Use car safety seats correctly: It is important to use a car safety seat every time the baby is in a vehicle and to make sure the seat is properly installed and the baby is properly secured.
4. Keep the baby's environment safe: It is important to keep the baby's environment free of hazards, such as sharp objects or toxic substances. It is also important to keep the baby away from smoking or other forms of tobacco smoke, as it can be harmful to their health.
5. Stay up to date on vaccines: It is important to follow the recommended vaccine schedule to help protect the baby from preventable diseases. This may involve multiple visits to the healthcare provider in the first few months of life. It is also important to keep track of the baby's vaccination records to ensure they are up to date.