BUILDING THE NATION THROUGH WOMEN'S HEALTH: MODERN ...

APPENDIX C
TRANSLATION OF FIGURE 5.7
“Good Methods for Protecting Newborns and Infants”
Changsha Mother and Child Assistance Organization
1. Eyes. For newborns and infants one must mix hot water with boric acid to form a paste
and apply to eyes with cotton.
2. Umbilical cord. Every day one must clean the umbilical cord with boric acid, apply
lotion and change cotton dressing.
3. Bathing. After umbilical cord falls off, give infant bath in hot water that has gradually
cooled to warm once daily, and use suitable cloth to dry off.
4. Breastfeeding. When nursing a newborn use clean white cloth or cotton to lightly clean
[nipple].
5. Food. The first day newborn is able to drink, give boiled water every two hours during
the day and every four hours at night to give the infant’s stomach a rest. You should not
nurse when ill or if you become pregnant for it is easy to have a miscarriage.
6. Atmosphere. In the infant’s room, no matter whether summer or winter, day or night,
you should open the window to allow fresh air.
7. Sleep. In order to allow for a natural rest when sleeping, the infant should not be
hemmed in or shaken.
8. Illness. If the infant becomes sick or has diarrhea, stop giving food and give only liquids.
Give small amounts of cold [previously] boiled water and take to hospital.
9. Flies. Flies are a vehicle for disease. If they land on cups and plates, they can carry
infectious diseases on their feet if you are not careful.
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