Following the birth of a baby there is certainly a lot of excitement in making that initial visit. In the first few days, weeks or even months following a baby’s arrival, their immune system is fragile and susceptible to infection. The parents are also sleep deprived, mum is recovering physically and experiencing a roller coaster ride of emotions. If you’re visiting that new mumma and bub, following some visiting etiquette is polite.
Holding the baby
There is usually a lot of anticipation in holding a new baby for the first time. That newborn smell, those tiny toes and little eyes. Some hospitals recommend that only the parents care for their baby in the first few days or weeks of their lives. This is to enhance bonding with their new child and to reduce a newborns exposure to pathogens that might make them sick. Respect the requests of the parents and be patient for that first cuddle.
Follow basic hygiene principle of handwashing or use a hand sanitizer before visiting. Avoid kissing baby. Postpone visits if unwell.
Avoid wearing perfume, smoking or other chemicals which can transfer to the baby’s clothes. Some hospitals will encourage a hospital gown be worn over clothes to protect the baby.
Home visits
Parents of a newborn are usually tired—it is suggested phoning ahead to arrange a suitable time for visiting and be sure to keep visits short. If possible, offer to help around the house - make a cuppa, put on a load of washing, folding, ironing or the dishes can help take the load off new parents. A home cooked meal or some groceries is usually always appreciated by new parents.
Be positive and offer support
Offer advice when asked. New parents are often overwhelmed with information and are trying to sort through it all to find out what works for them. Offer encouragement and support rather than judgement.
Other ways to keep baby safe
Apart from visitors abiding by the parents set of rules there are other ways to keep baby safe. This involves having a healthy pregnancy and allowing all the newborn tests. Vaccinations should also be considered, for mum, baby and any other caregivers.
Supporting baby’s immune system
Having a healthy pregnancy and birth plays a large role in supporting a healthy immune system in a baby. This includes eating a wholesome diet, exercise and maintaining healthy blood sugars, blood pressure and weight. Vaginal births, and breastfeeding colostrum in the first few days have been shown to supply the baby with beneficial flora and nutrients to provide protection against infection. If these scenarios aren’t possible consider supplementing with an infant probiotic.
Vaccinations
Anyone who will be in close contact with the baby regularly, especially grandparents, parents and any siblings, should consider being immunised against the flu and whooping cough. These can be life-threatening illnesses in a small infant. Ideally get vaccinated before the baby is born or make sure you have had your booster. Speak with your doctor for more information regarding what vaccines are recommended.
Newborn health checks
The following is a list of tests, screens and vaccinations for a newborn. They are usually performed before the mum leaves hospital or in the first week.
- Heel prick test—every newborn baby in Australia has the opportunity to undergo newborn screening to help identify serious medical conditions including cystic fibrosis, hypothyroidism, phenylketonuria and other rare metabolic disorders. This involves pricking the baby’s heel and placing a few drops onto a screening card. Usually all these tests are performed in hospital but may be done at home or in another healthcare setting.
- Newborn physical exam – soon after birth a physical examination is done of the newborn to determine any abnormalities, birth injuries or cardiorespiratory disorders. A more thorough check is normally done by a paediatrician a short while afterwards.
- Vaccination against hepatitis B is usually given shortly after birth to start long-term protection against this disease.
- Vitamin K injection or oral dose is administered to help blood clotting and prevent serious bleeding.
- Universal newborn hearing screening is performed to detect permanent hearing impairment.
When visiting a new baby, it’s important to be respectful of the parents wishes. Following basic hygiene principles can help keep baby safe from potentially harmful infections. Other ways to keep a newborn protected against disease and infection is to make sure everyone is fully vaccinated, and that baby has had all the required health checks.
References
- https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/10-big-tips-visiting-new-baby-%E2%80%93-and-being-asked-back
- https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ConditionsAndTreatments/newborn-screening
- https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ServicesAndSupport/first-days-after-birth
- Swamy GK, Wheeler SM. Neonatal pertussis, cocooning and maternal immunization. Expert Rev Vaccines. 2014 Sep;13(9):1107-14 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25075629
- Takeda S, et al. Influenza vaccination during pregnancy and its usefulness to mothers and their young infants. J Infect Chemother. 2015 Apr;21(4):238-46 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25708925
- Wilcken B. Screening for disease in the newborn: the evidence base for blood-spot screening. Pathology. 2012 Feb;44(2):73-9 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22198252
HealthylifePharmacy
HealthylifePharmacy
