It’s common to feel unprepared if you are having your first baby. Taking a newborn care class during your pregnancy can help to prepare you for the real thing. During your hospital stay, don’t hesitate to ask the nurses for help with basic baby care. Before discharge, make sure you — and your partner — are comfortable with these newborn care basics:
Handling a newborn, including supporting your baby’s neck
Changing your baby’s diaper
Bathing your baby
Dressing your baby
Swaddling your baby
Feeding and burping your baby
Cleaning the umbilical cord
Caring for a healing circumcision
Using a bulb syringe to clear your baby’s nasal passages
Taking a newborn’s temperature
Tips for soothing your baby
Make sure you have a hospital contact to call if you have any questions or concerns.
Many first-time parents welcome the help of a family member or friend who has “been there.”