What's Included in Newborn Care?

The first few days of your child's life are a crucial period. Ensuring they get the best care during this time is key to their healthy growth and development. Here's what to expect from newborn care and why it matters so much for your baby.

Why newborn care matters

Staying on top of your baby's health is crucial from the minute they're born. Newborn care refers to the medical checks and tests done in the first few days of your child's life, and these early days play a key role in their growth and development. Neglecting newborn care can lead to developmental problems and other health concerns.

At Garland Pediatric Practice, serving Garland, Mesquite, and Sunnyvale, Texas, your newborn is in good hands. Dr. Phani Bodavula is a board-certified pediatrician with more than 15 years of experience providing quality care for newborns and children.

What happens right after your baby is born

Newborn care begins from the minute your baby arrives:

• Your doctor or nurse cleans your baby and removes any mucus from their nose, throat, and mouth.
• They cut the umbilical cord.
• Your baby is placed with the mother for skin-to-skin contact.

In the first 24 hours, Dr. Bodavula will carry out your newborn's first physical exam, screening for signs of any conditions or disorders. If screening reveals a medical condition or developmental disorder, early diagnosis means it can be treated appropriately and any symptoms managed, giving your child the opportunity to live a fully functioning life.

What to expect during newborn care

Dr. Bodavula takes your baby through a number of routine tests and checks during their first couple of office visits. These typically include:

• Performing a complete physical exam
• Discussing what to expect for your baby's growth and development
• Measuring your baby's head circumference
• Testing your baby's reflexes
• Testing your baby's senses, including hearing and vision
• Reviewing the results of any screening tests already carried out
• Asking about your child's well-being, such as whether they're eating and sleeping well
• Administering vaccines

These visits are also a good time to ask any questions you may have.

What comes after newborn care

If your baby sails through newborn care with no flags raised — congratulations! There's no greater joy than having a healthy child. Even so, it's important to remain vigilant about your child's care.

When to call us

Contact Dr. Bodavula as soon as possible if you notice any of the following:

• A fever
• Blocked tear ducts
• A runny nose making breathing or feeding challenging
• Vomiting or diarrhea

Schedule an appointment today to set your baby up for regular health check-ins. You can book online or call 972-544-5214. Dr. Bodavula and his team are fully equipped to care for your child's needs.

Key takeaways

• Newborn care covers the essential medical checks and tests done in your baby's first few days of life.
• Care begins right after birth, with cleaning, cord cutting, skin-to-skin contact, and a first physical exam within 24 hours.
• Early routine visits include a physical exam, growth measurements, reflex and sensory testing, and vaccines.
• Early diagnosis of any condition allows for timely, appropriate treatment.
• Stay alert for fever, blocked tear ducts, a troublesome runny nose, vomiting, or diarrhea, and contact your pediatrician right away.