Download - ENFAMIL - Premature

Transcript
  • Your Special Newborn Volume 2: The Premature

    Baby Comes Home

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 1 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • 1 Contents At home with your new baby .............................................................1

    Learning about your babys world ...................................................11

    Feeding your baby ...........................................................................14

    Your babys medical needs .............................................................21

    Everyday baby basics .....................................................................23

    Making parenthood a little easier ....................................................27

    At home with your new baby Its fi nally herethe day youre taking your new baby home! No more long days and nights in the NICU, surrounded by nurses, doctors, and equipment. Now, you can bring your baby home to his very own bed, in his very own room! This is an exciting time, and one youve looked forward to forever. But you still have doubts. After all, the hospital environment youre anxious to leave behind is the one youve depended on for support. You may wonder if youre ready to take care of your baby on your own. Dont worrythese are normal feelings. All parents, and especially those of premature babies, are nervous as they get ready to go home with their baby. They know that theyre really on their own.

    The fi rst few weeks at home with your baby will be both rewarding and challenging, as you learn more about one another. Give your family time to get to know its newest member. It usually takes at least three months or so to get settled. Youll be creating new routines for your whole family. All of this takes time, and energy, so its no wonder youll feel tired at the end of the day. You may also feel overwhelmed in your new role as a parent. Youll probably have lots of questions about your baby and how to care for him. Remember, youre not alone. Your babys doctor, friends and family, and even baby care books can help you fi nd the answers you need. When you know more about how to care for your baby, you can relax and enjoy every minute with him. And youll want to treasure every momentyour baby will never be this tiny again.

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 2-1 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • 2 3

    Bonding with your baby

    While your baby was in the NICU, you might have felt like it was diffi cult to really feel close to him, or to show him how much you love him. Some parents of premature babies are afraid theyve missed out on bonding with their baby. While this may be a normal feeling, its really not the case. Thats because every time youre with your baby, youre bonding with him. So now that youre home together, youll fi nd each time you smile at your baby, hold him, talk to him, or just look at him, the bond shared by just the two of you is growing stronger. This bonding will continue throughout your babys lifetime, and plays a key role in helping your baby develop to his full potential.

    Its easy to encourage bondingjust play with and enjoy your baby! Interact with him as much as you can. Its fi ne to treat your premature baby just as you would a full-term infant. Sometimes, parents think their preemies are more fragile than full-term babies. They may be extra cautious, or too indulgent, or even too attached. Of course, your baby is the most special baby in the whole world! But treat him just as you would any baby, so you dont interfere with his normal development.

    Baby talk

    Even though it will be some time before you hear your babys fi rst words, youll still be amazed at how quickly the two of you learn to communicate with each other. He may be very tiny, but he can still let you know what he wants and needs. As you watch your babys body language, youll see that hes extremely sensitive to the world around him. At fi rst, your baby will sleep most of the time. But when hes awake and alert, hes ready to communicate with you.

    When your baby wants your attention, youll notice:

    His eyes are wide open

    Hell look at you, look away, then look at you again

    His breathing is relaxed

    His arms and legs will be slightly bent and relaxed

    He may put his hands together, or bring his fi sts to his mouth

    When your baby has had too much stimulation, he may:

    Fuss and cry

    Stiffen his arms and legs

    Arch his back

    Shut his eyes, look away from you, or turn his head away

    Fall asleep

    Whenever your baby seems tired, let him rest. Quietly hold him without talking ormoving, or lay him down. Babies can handle only one activity at a time. If your baby seems stressed, try to relax with him. Hell let you know when hes ready to play again.

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 2-3 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • While your baby is tiny, hes very aware of his surroundings.

    4 5

    How your preemie baby may behave

    Your preemie will most likely do all of the things that all babies doit just may takehim a little longer. If hes like most NICU babies, he came home even before his original due date. That means he has some catching up to do when it comes to acting like afull-term baby. While your baby is tiny, hes very aware of his surroundings. He just doesnt have the same communication skills as an older infant. For the fi rst few weeks at home, it may be hard to guess how hes going to behave. But, after a short time, youll be able to predict his reactions and responseshis behavior will become part of your routine.

    Helping your baby learn

    Youve watched your baby try to get his hand to his mouthover and over again, and without much success! Its not that your baby isnt graceful. Its just that his nervous system isnt fully developed, and his movements arent smooth and coordinated. But your baby is eager to learn. You can help him by:

    Holding him so youre supporting his head and body, but leave his arms and legs free. Let him kick with his legs and wave his arms. This helps build his muscles.

    Gently playing with your baby by slowly moving his arms and legs.

    Talking to your baby in a warm, enthusiastic voice. When he senses your love,hell be excited to learn even more.

    Placing your baby on his tummy to play. Do this as often as possible. Youll notice that as he gets older, hell practice raising his head up off the crib mattress. However, never place your baby on his tummy to sleep.

    Encouraging him to lift his head by coming close to him with your head above his. Talk gently to him. Hell want to look at you and will probably try to lift his head.

    Babys breathing

    Your babys breathing patterns can change rapidly without warning. To learn whats normal for your baby, you may want to follow these tips:

    Count how many times he takes a breath each minute.

    Watch his chest as he breathes while resting, playing, crying, and while hes upset. This can help you identify his moods.

    Listen to the noises he makes as he breathes.

    You can become more familiar with your babys behavior so that it will be easier to recognize when hes acting differently. Remember, if youre ever concerned about his breathing or color,call his doctor right away.

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 4-5 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • 6 7

    Sleep tight

    Babies sleepa lot. In fact, your baby will probably sleep more than anything else during his fi rst weeks at homesometimes 15 to 22 hours a day. Some babies have trouble adjusting from the bright lights and noisy NICU to a more peaceful environment, like their own rooms at home. If your baby has trouble sleeping, youmay want to try these tips to help him drift off to dream land:

    Use a night light and try playing soft music in the background.

    Over a period of several days, slowly turn down the extra noise and light, helping him adjust to his new home.

    Try not to play with your baby when feeding him at night. Hell learn that evenings are for sleeping and eating, instead of for playing.

    The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that healthy infants be placed on their backs for sleeping. Based on information about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), this is the safest position for your baby.1 Always place your baby on his back to sleep during the fi rst year of life, unless his doctor tells you to place him in a different position for sleeping. For more important information on reducing the risk of SIDS, visit www.aap.org.

    Understanding your babys cries

    Crying is one of the ways your baby communicates with you. He can let you know if hes hungry, or tired, or needs a diaper change. The trick is learning when your baby is crying from hunger, pain, or another reason. Youll soon be able to tell what your baby needs just by his cries. Sometimes your baby may be crying for no reasonhes just had a meal, a nap, and a fresh diaper. Most babies have fussy periods now and then. This kind of crying seems to help them get rid of extra energy so they can become more relaxed and content.

    The best way to handle your babys crying is to go to him right away when he cries, especially during the fi rst few months. You cant spoil your baby by giving him attention. In fact, if you answer his calls for help, you may fi nd hell cry less overall.

    Comforting your crying baby

    Babies cry for lots of reasons, and parents try to fi gure out what it will take to comfort them. Try some of these tips:

    Offer a feeding. Premature babies will need frequent, small feedings, and will need to be fed around the clock.

    Whether youre breastfeeding or formula-feeding, feed your baby in a calm, quiet place. Too much noise or activity can overwhelm your baby and may keep him from eating as much as he should. If your baby doesnt eat enough at each feeding, he may wake again more quickly and repeat the cycle of crying.

    The American Academy of Pediatricsrecommends that healthy infants beplaced on their backs for sleeping.

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 6-7 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • 8 9

    Try burping him to see if he has any trapped gas bubbles.

    Change your babys diaper. If his diaper is dirty or wet, hes uncomfortable, and will have a hard time settling down to eat and then sleep.

    If your baby has already been fed and changed, and is still unhappy, you might try:

    Holding your baby closely in your arms. You can also try wrapping him snugly in a blanket, or swaddling him.

    Talking to your baby, or singing to him, in a low constant tone. Handle him smoothly and gently.

    Giving your baby more physical contact and movement. Try walking or rocking him. Or, gently stroke his head or pat his back or chest. Start with one activity and repeat it for fi ve or ten minutes before you try another.

    Taking your baby for a stroller or car ride.

    Playing soft music. Or try rhythmic noise or a vibrating chair.

    If nothing seems to work, you may want to just leave your baby alone. Many babies cant fall asleep without crying. Your baby wont cry for long if hes really tired.

    If youre frustrated because you cant comfort your baby, try to stay calm. No matter how angry or impatient you become with your babys crying, do not shake your baby. SHAKING AN INFANT CAN CAUSE BLINDNESS, BRAIN DAMAGE, OR DEATH.Have a family member or friend give you some relief.

    Remember, newborn babies can cry from one to four hours a day as they adjust to life outside the womb.2 Dont expect to be able to console your baby every time he cries. Just do your best, and be sure to enjoy him when hes in one of his happier moods!

    Care for yourself so you can care for your baby

    Even though your new baby is your whole world right now, its important to remember to make time for yourself, too. Any parent would agree that taking care of a new baby can be exhausting. This new little person in your life demands so much of your time and energy. Sometimes, it seems as if you dont have time to do anything except feed him, change him, and meet his needs. Thats why its important to care for yourself, too:

    Read a book or start a much-enjoyed hobby.

    Pat yourself on the back. Youre a great parent! Only you can give your baby the love and care that you do.

    Dont try to be perfect. Your best is good enough for your baby.

    Ask for help from relatives, friends, and neighbors.

    Sleep when your baby sleeps.

    Take time away from your baby. It will help re-energize you to care for him when you return.

    Make time to exercise, even if its just a brisk walk to reduce stress.

    Keep your sense of humor! It makes it easier to get through the tough parts of parenting.

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 8-9 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • 10 11

    Learning about your babys worldOne of the greatest joys of being a parent is watching your baby learn about the world around herand knowing youre her fi rst teacher. Enjoying your baby as she grows and develops is what being a parent is all about!

    Corrected age

    Normally, a babys age is calculated from the day she was born. But for the premature baby, a corrected age is used to help determine physical, social, and emotional development. To fi nd your babys corrected age, take her actual age and subtract the number of weeks premature that she was born.

    Sight

    One of the fi rst skills your baby will have is focusing her eyes on your face, watching the people near her, and tracking bright objects as they move. At fi rst, she wont see clearly at a distance. But as she grows, her ability to focus will improve.

    Keep these tips in mind as you encourage your babys visual development:

    Hold your baby so your face is six to eight inches from hers. Talk gently to her. When you know you have her attention, slowly move your head from side to side so she can follow you with her eyes. She might not be able to track your face across her nose until shes a bit older.

    Bright lights can be irritating to babies. Be sure the lights are not shining directly in her face. Then, hold her in a sitting position while looking at her so she can make eye contact.

    The fi rst few weeks your baby is home shell like simple black and white patterns. Babies also like mirrors. Seeing herself in the mirror is exciting! Later, show your baby bright, colorful toys or other objects. Move them slowly before her eyes so she can learn to follow them.

    Remember, you are your babys whole world! Your voice, your smile, and your love are key to her healthy development.

    Your baby is very aware of the sounds and sights around her. The sound of your voice is one

    of her favorites!

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 10-11 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • 12 13

    Sound

    Your baby is very aware of the sounds and sights around her. The sound of your voice is one of her favorites!

    Youll encourage your babys hearing development when you:

    Talk to her as much as possible in a calm, cheerful voice. Tell her stories about you and your family. She may not understand what you say, but shell respond to hearing your voice.

    Vary the sound of your voice by changing your tone and your volume.

    Sing or hum to your baby often.

    Introduce your baby to new sounds like musical toys or rattles.

    Touch

    With just the slightest touch, you may be able to turn your fussy baby into a calm, content baby. Your slow, gentle touches help her feel secure and safe. Be sure to:

    Hold her often. Dont worry about spoiling her during these early monthsyou wont.

    Watch for her signals. If she wants to be cuddled, shell be relaxed and snuggly. If she seems upset, simply hold her without moving, or lay her down.

    Introduce your baby to lots of different texturestowels, diapers, stuffed animals, water, your skinanything that feels good to your baby.

    Smell and taste

    All babies explore their worlds by putting things in their mouths. Thats because taste and smell are two of the senses that help your baby learn more about her world.Keep in mind:

    Newborns seem to prefer the taste and smell of their own mothers milk.

    Right now you dont have to go out of your way to stimulate these sensesyour babys taste buds are stimulated at every feeding, and normal household smells keep this sense well exercised.

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 12-13 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • Enfamil EnfaCare provides the extra nutrition babies who were born prematurely need.

    Scientifi cally designed with more protein, calcium, and other important nutrients than routine formulas to help provide better growth and development for babies born prematurely.

    In fact, babies fed a program of Enfamil

    formulas* achieved growth similar to fullterm, breastfed babies.3

    Now thats a big deal for little babies.

    *Enfamil Premature, Enfamil EnfaCare, and Enfamil LIPIL

    Feeding your babyTo bottle feed or breastfeed, that is the question

    Experts agree on the many benefi ts of breast milk, but many mothers have questions about breastfeeding and bottle feeding. And the answer is not always either/or. Sometimes, a combination of the two might be best. Talk to the doctor and make an informed decision that works for you. Either way, your baby will be healthy and happy with your decision.

    Enfamil EnfaCare nourishes your babys growth

    and development

    Babies born prematurely have special nutritional needs. For this reason, many doctors recommend Enfamil EnfaCare through 9 months of age, to help with growth and development.

    14

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 14-15 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • 16 17

    Some directions on preparing formula

    How do you prepare infant formula? Simple. By following the label directions. Your babys health depends on carefully following the instructions. Improper hygiene, preparation, dilution, use, or storage may result in severe harm. Ready-to-use and Concentrated Liquid infant formulas are commercially sterile in the sealed container. Powdered infant formulas are not sterile and should not be fed to premature infants or infants who might have immune problems unless directed and supervised by your babys doctor. Ask your babys doctor which formula is appropriate for your baby.

    Tips for feeding time

    Your baby may need to eat on demand, or may feed well on a newborn schedule. A breastfed baby usually has 8 to 12 feedings in 24 hours, while a bottle fed baby may have 8 to 10 feedings during that time. Whatever feeding method you choose, your baby will need small, frequent feedings around the clock.

    You may need to wake your baby every three hours or so if hes sleeping through a feeding. Wake your baby gently by removing his blanket or stroking his arms and legs. Dont rush him or he may be too upset to eat. Once hes wide-awake, hold him, and touch your nipple, or the bottle nipple, to his cheek or lip. Hell be encouraged to open his mouth and turn toward it to eat.

    Preparing bottles

    Wash everythingbottles, nipples, and capsin hot, soapy water before using them. Check with your babys doctor about the need to use cooled, boiled water for mixing and the need to boil clean utensils, bottles, and nipples in water before use.

    Once prepared, infant formula can spoil quickly. Opened containers of liquid formula, once prepared, need to be fed immediately or covered and refrigerated and used within 48 hours. Formula prepared with powder needs to be fed immediately or covered and refrigerated and used within 24 hours (check product label for specifi c guidelines).

    Most babies dont seem to mind whether their bottle is warmed or straight out of the refrigerator. Some may prefer a consistent temperature from one feeding to the next.

    If you want to warm a bottle that has been in the refrigerator, run warm tap water over the bottle or place the bottle in a pan of hot (not boiling) water. Take care that the cap and nipple do not get wet. Shake the bottle occasionally while warming. The warming time should be less than 15 minutes. Test the formula temperature before feeding; it should not feel warm or cold when dropped on your handneutral is close to body temperature (about 100F). Warmed formula should be discarded within one hour.

    WARNING: Never warm formula in a microwave. Serious burns can result.

    Discard formula remaining in the bottle within one hour after feeding begins.

    Whether youre breastfeeding or bottle feeding your baby, use these guidelines as you learn more about your babys feeding schedule:

    Support your babys head during feedings, keeping it higher than his stomach. This aids in digestion and helps avoid ear infections.

    Your baby will eat at his own pace. Youll soon recognize his pattern of swallowing and breathing. Babies who eat slowly seem to take more milk at each feeding,and may be satisfi ed and sleep longer between feedings. If your baby ever seems to have trouble catching his breath while eating, or is coughing, choking, or sputtering, sit him up until he seems ready to eat again.

    Keep feedings relaxed, with as few interruptions as possible.

    Hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle, and keep it steady so he can get the right suction.

    Keep your baby from swallowing air by keeping the bottle nipple full of formula. He shouldnt suck on an empty bottle or drain the bottle.

    When your baby is fi nished eating, the nipple will fall out of his mouth and his whole body will become relaxed. Your baby will probably need about 20 to 30 minutes* to fi nish his bottle. If he seems fi nished after only 15 or 20 minutes, you may want to wake him and try to get him to eat for a little longer. You want him to have a tummy thats full enough to satisfy him for another few hours.

    * If your baby takes less than 15 minutes to eat, you may want to use a nipple with a smaller hole. If he takes longer than normal, and doesnt seem to be sucking actively, make sure the nipple hole isnt clogged.

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 16-17 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • 18 19

    How to tell if your babys

    getting enough to eat

    So, your baby takes three fl uid ounces of formula at every feeding, then falls off to sleep. Youre wondering if you should wake him and offer him another ounce.

    The best way to tell if your babys getting enough to eat is to check his growth. Your baby should be gaining about an ounce a day in the fi rst few weeks home from the hospital. His doctor will watch his weight gain carefully during the fi rst few months to make sure its increasing steadily. Also, if your baby has six or more wet diapers a day, and seems pretty happy between feedings, hes probably getting plenty to eat.

    Your baby may give you signs when hes had enough to eat. He may fall asleep, or close his mouth and turn away from his bottle. He may also bite or play with the bottle nipple, or even fuss if you keep trying to feed him.

    The important thing is to follow your babys lead. Hell let you know how hungry he is and how much he wants to eat.

    When your babyis fi nished eating, the nipple will fall

    out of his mouth and his whole body will become relaxed.

    If youre worried that your baby isnt eating like he should, talk with your babys doctor. If you see any of these signs, let your doctor see your baby promptly:

    Constant or inconsolable crying.

    Unable to wake your baby.

    Consistent feeding refusals.

    Persistent coughing, choking, or breathing problems.

    Noticeably fewer wet or soiled diapers.

    Understanding your

    babys bottom line

    You can learn a lot about your baby from whats in his diaper!

    Occasional changes in the color and consistency of your babys stools are normal. Breastfed babies usually have yellow stools. Formula fed babies usually have yellow, brown, or green stools. Those babies fed Enfamil PREMIUM may have softer stools, more like a breastfed baby. But if you have changed his formula, there may be a change in his stool color. And if youre feeding your baby an iron-fortifi ed formula like Enfamil EnfaCare, or if your baby is taking an iron supplement, he may be more likely to have green stools.

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 18-19 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • 20 21

    Your babys medical needsBy the time you take your baby home, you may have already established a relationship with the doctor or other healthcare professional wholl continue to provide medical care for your baby.

    Your babys doctoryour partner in caring for your baby

    Your babys doctor is your partner in caring for your baby. Be sure to keep him or her informed of any changes in your babys health. Its important for you to feel comfortable enough to talk with your babys doctor and medical staff about any issues you and your baby are facing.

    Your babys doctor will track your babys progress based on necessary exams and testing, and on the information that you provide about your baby. Its helpful to have your questions and concerns ready each time you visit or call your babys doctor. When you visit your babys doctor:

    Dont be afraid to ask questionstheres no such thing as a silly question.

    Make sure you understand the doctors instructions. Your doctor will gladly explain any information that you dont understand.

    Tell your babys doctor about whats happening with your baby. Describe her activities, her attention level, how she sleeps and eats, and her personality.

    Keep all appointments with your babys doctor who is the expert when it comes to your babys growth and development. The care your baby receives during these fi rst few months of life will lay the foundation for later childhood.

    How to tell if your baby is sick

    Most babies get sick at one time or another. Its a good idea to know a few warning signs of sickness. Just because your child has one or more of these signs doesnt mean she has a severe illness. But, let your babys doctor know if your child has any of these warning signs that might indicate shes sick:

    Rectal temperature of 100.4F or higher.

    Vomitingnot just spitting up.

    Refusal to take feedings.

    No energy.

    Diarrhea, especially if theres mucus, blood, or an unusually bad smell.

    Hard cryingwith no obvious cause.

    Inability to see or hear normally.

    Unusual rash.

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 20-21 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • 22 23

    Fever

    If your baby develops a fevera rectaltemperature of 100.4F or higher4call your babys doctor. Fever is a sign of infection somewhere in the body. The best way to measure your babys fever is to take a rectal temperature. Follow these steps to take a rectal temperature:

    Use a rectal (in the bottom) thermometer. Digital thermometers usually provide the quickest, most accurate readings. Rub the end with rubbing alcohol or soap and water, then rinse it with cool, clear water. Lubricate the thermometer with a small amount of nonpetroleum lubricant.

    Place your baby on her tummy. With your thumb and index fi nger, spread the babys buttocks.

    With your other hand, insert the lubricated thermometer 1/2 to 1 inch into the anal opening. Hold the thermometer in place for the time recommended by the thermometer instructions.5

    If the rectal reading is over 100.4F, your child may have a fever.4

    Let your babys doctor know if she has a fever so you can receive instructions on whether you should give your baby any medicines, or other steps you should take to reduce the fever.

    Everyday baby basicsDiapers and clothes

    You may need to buy diapers and clothing especially made for preemies. These preemie sizes are available in department and discount stores, and over the internet. Just dont buy too many small clothes and diapers. Your baby will grow quickly.

    Comfortable temperatures in your home

    Most small babies cant tolerate temperature extremes. Make sure your home is warm enough by setting your thermostat in the low- to mid-70s. Your babys body temperature regulating mechanism is functioning by the time he leaves the NICU. But because hes so little, and doesnt have much of a protective fat layer, it may be harder for him to stay comfortable. Its also important to note that when your baby uses a lot of extra calories to keep warm, that can interfere with his weight gain. If your baby seems fussy, try checking the room temperature to make sure its warm enough. Feel your babys arms, legs, or the back of his neck to make sure it isnt too cool. And, even though you want to keep the room warm, dont overheat it.

    Car seat safety

    Whenever your baby is traveling in the car, he should be strapped safely in his car seat. Car seats are required by law in every state, and parents must know how to use them properly:

    Choose a car seat thats designed for your childs size.

    Use a car safety seat without a shield. Shields often are too high and too far from the body to fi t correctly. A small babys face could hit a shield in a crash.6

    An adult should ride where they can watch your premature baby breathing. Never place a rear-facing car seat in the front seat with a passenger side air bag.

    Talk to your babys doctor about ordering a car seat test before discharge to make sure the semi-reclined position doesnt cause or add to breathing problems.

    If your baby develops a fevera temperature of

    100.4F or highercall your babys doctor.

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 22-23 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • 24 25

    If your baby has trouble breathing when sitting up, your babys doctor may recommend using a crash-tested car bed so he can lie fl at.6

    The back seat of the car is the safest place for your child to ride. Place the car seat facing the rear of the car.

    Be sure the car seat is installed properly, according to the manufacturers directions.

    Ask the doctor if you should roll up blankets and place them on either side of your babys head, to help keep him from slumping over or moving about dangerously.

    Crib safety

    Your babys crib is one place where hell be alone, so this should be a totally safe environment. Follow this checklist to make sure your baby is always safe in his crib5:

    A fi rm, tight-fi tting mattress

    No loose, missing, or broken hardware or slats

    No more than 2 3/8 between the slats (about the width of a soda can)

    No corner posts over 1/16 high

    No cutout designs in the headboard or footboard

    No soft objects such as pillows, loose bedding, or stuffed toys should be in the crib

    Visit www.aap.org for more crib safety instructions

    Your babys crib is one place where hell be alone, so this should be a totally safe environment.

    Bath time

    Your baby doesnt need much bathing if you keep his diaper area washed and clean. Two or three baths a week during the fi rst year are plenty. Until the umbilical cord falls off, your newborn should have sponge baths only:

    In a warm room, place your baby on a fl at surface, like a changing table or counter next to a sink. Pad any hard surfaces. Make sure your baby is secure, with a safety strap or with your hand on him at all times. Even with a safety strap, never leave your baby alone, even for a moment.

    Use a basin of water, a damp washcloth, and some mild baby soap. Keep your baby wrapped in a towel, and expose only the body parts youre washing. Wash your babys face fi rst, and work your way down, washing the diaper area last.

    Once your babys umbilical area is healed, try placing him directly in the water.The water should be warm. Check it with your wrist or elbow before placing your baby in it. These fi rst baths should be kept short andvery gentle. Many parents use a bathinette, sink, or plastic tub.6

    Wash your baby with smooth, soothing motions to help him relax and enjoy his bath. After bathing your baby, swaddle him in a soft towel to dry and warm him.

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 24-25 7/9/10 8:23 AM

  • 26 27

    A big welcome from

    big brothers and sisters

    If you have other children, they probably cant wait to get to know the newest member of the family! You want them to feel close to their new baby brother or sister. Let them know how important theyll be to the new baby. You can help them adjust by:

    Talking to your other children. Let them know that the baby was born early and may need some extra attention.

    Taking time to really listen to your other children. They may be unsure about how the new baby will fi t into the family, and what their role might be as an older brother or sister. You can help them feel confi dent that while the family is changing, its a change for the better!

    Including your children in caring for their new brother or sister. Ask them to help diaper or dress your baby. Or ask them to snuggle with you as you feed the baby.

    Making time just for you and your older children. They need you, too. Reassure them that theyre just as special and important to you as ever!

    Keeping in mind that it takes several months for a family to adjust to a new member. Give everyone time to get used to the new baby and their roles in the family.

    Making parenthood a little easier Formula delivered to your door

    Youre so busy taking care of your new baby. So, let our Home Delivery Program take care of delivering Enfamil EnfaCare infant formulain the form your babys doctor recommendedright to your door. Choose:

    Enfamil EnfaCare Nursette bottles

    Just shake, open, add the appropriate nipple to the bottle, and feed.

    Enfamil EnfaCare powder cans

    Just measure water and add to bottle, add powder, and shake well. Follow label instructions carefully.

    Enfamil EnfaCare Ready-to-use cans

    Ready-to-use product. Add to bottle and feed.

    You can order Enfamil EnfaCare, as well as all Enfamil formulas, for home delivery. Just call 1-800-BABY123, or visit enfamil.com/delivery.

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 26-27 7/9/10 8:24 AM

  • REGISTER NOW!REGISTER NOW!

    Our privacy policy is available at the phone number or website above. Offer limited to one per household and subject to change without notice. Enfamil Family Beginnings benefi ts may vary.

    Register. Receive. Enjoy.

    FREE informative magazines, booklets and emails

    Make Your Baby Shower Last All Year Long

    Get up to $250 in FREE gifts.

    2010 Mead Johnson & Company, LLC

    enfamil.com/4baby105 1-800-4BABY42 ext 105

    FREE samples and discounts, up to A one-week supply of Enfamil PREMIUM

    $60 in savings on any Enfamil formula

    FREE goodies, such as anEnfamil Carryall and EnfaChill single bottle cooler

    References:

    1. American Academy of Pediatrics. Shelov SP, Hannemann RE, eds. Caring for Your Baby and Young Child, Revised Edition: Birth to Age 5. New York: Bantam Books; 2004:45.

    2. American Academy of Pediatrics. Shelov SP, Hannemann RE, eds. Caring for Your Baby and Young Child. Revised Edition: Birth to Age 5. New York: Bantam Books; 2004:43-44.

    3. Clandinin MT, Van Aerde JE, Merkel KL, et al. Growth and development of preterm infants fed infant formulas containing docosahexaenoic acid and arachidonic acid. J Pediatr. 2005;146:461-468.

    4. American Academy of Pediatrics. Shelov SP, Hannemann RE, eds. Caring for Your Baby and Young Child, Revised Edition: Birth to Age 5. New York: Bantam Books; 2004:448-449.

    5. US Consumer Product Safety Commission. Is Your Used Crib Safe: CPSF Document #5020. http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5020.html. Accessed 6/16/2008.

    6. American Academy of Pediatrics. Shelov SP, Hannemann RE, eds. Caring for Your Baby and Young Child, Revised Edition: Birth to Age 5. New York: Bantam Books; 2004:22.

    29

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 28-29 7/9/10 8:24 AM

  • *Studied before the addition of prebiotics*Studied before the addition of prebiotics*Studied before the addition of prebiotics

    Our commitment to you and your baby

    We are committed to making the highest-quality formulas, and we continuously strive to provide formulas with nutritional

    benefi ts closer to breast milk than they were before. Our trained and caring staff is here to support you.

    Contact us at

    1-800-BABY123 or enfamil.com.

    LB2438 NEW 7/10 2010 Mead Johnson & Company, LLC 1016743A6

    LB2438_SpecialNewborn_Vol2_07_10.indd 30 7/9/10 8:24 AM


Top Related