Managing Complications in Pregnancy and Childbirth: - IAWG

C-78 Newborn care principlesNEWBORNS WITHOUT PROBLEMS• If the newborn has no apparent problems, provide routine initialnewborn care, including skin-to-skin contact with the mother andearly breastfeeding (page C-76).• If the mother’s condition permits, keep the baby in skin-to-skincontact with the mother at all times;• If the mother’s condition does not permit her to maintain skin-toskincontact with the baby after the delivery (e.g. caesareansection):- Wrap the baby in a soft, dry cloth, cover with a blanket andensure the head is covered to prevent heat loss;- Observe frequently.• If the mother’s condition requires prolonged separation from thebaby, transfer the baby to the appropriate service to care fornewborns (see below).TRANSFERRING BABIES• Explain the baby’s problem to the mother (page C-5).• Keep the baby warm. Wrap the baby in a soft, dry cloth, cover witha blanket and ensure the head is covered to prevent heat loss.• Transfer the baby in the arms of a health care provider if possible.If the baby requires special treatment such as oxygen, transfer inan incubator or bassinet.• Initiate breastfeeding as soon as the baby is ready to suckle or assoon as the mother’s condition permits.• If breastfeeding has to be delayed due to maternal or newbornproblems, teach the mother to express breastmilk as soon aspossible and ensure that this milk is given to the newborn.• Ensure that the service caring for the newborn receives the recordof the labour and delivery and of any treatments given to thenewborn.