Pediatrics: Ashburn, Loudoun, Leesburg, Lansdowne, Broadlands,
Sterling, Cascades, Potomac Falls and Potomac Station:
Newborn Visit
Crying
–
Often crying will peak at 6-8weeks. With time, you will learn
to distinguish between a hungry cry from other cries. Try not
to use feeding as a way to console every cry. Fussy periods lasting
3 hours on average are common. If crying persists at night, you
can try planned awakenings during the day.
Bowel movements -
It is normal for babies to strain. Babies only have constipation
if they have very hard and infrequent stools.
Umbilical cord -
Call if you notice a persistent or bloody discharge. If the skin
surrounding the cord is red let your doctor know.
Family
Concerns -
Try to sleep when your baby sleeps. Spend quality time with older
siblings as they often feel neglected. Remember to cuddle and
nurture your baby.
Development
-
Babies at this time are learning to smile. It is normal for
them to sleep up to 18 hours a day.
Diet
-
At this age the baby should not have solids. Avoid microwaving
formula or pumped breast milk since uneven heating can cause burns.
It is important not to give Karo syrup or honey to a baby. If
your baby is a winter baby it may be appropriate to use vitamin
D supplements.
Safety
Toys -
Be careful not to allow older sibling to share toys or food.
Water
-
Never leave your child unattended around water; it takes two inches
of water to drown. Turn the temperature of your hot water heater
down to less than 120 degrees.
Clothes
-
Avoid clothes with loops that can catch on objects.
Sleep - The baby should sleep alone in a crib on his or her
side or back. Avoid using pillows in the crib. These recommendations
have dramatically reduced the incidence of the sudden infant death
syndrome.
Cars
-
Rear facing car seats should be used in one of the rear seats.
Fever
-
At this age fevers can be serious, please call if your baby is
less than 2 months old with a fever (101.0)
Congestion
-
Try using saltwater nose drops and the blue bulb syringe. Warm
water humidifiers and sitting in a steamed up bathroom will help.
