‘Baby Health & Safety’

Having a sick baby is probably the most exhaustive, frustrating time of a new mother’s life. Babies can’t communicate pain or discomfort verbally, so they cry, fuss or stop eating;  crying – even screaming at times to let you know they are sick. What is a mother to do when the know their precious little baby sweetums is sick? It is a helpless feeling.

Fortunately, there is a lot of helpful information nowadays to help parents through the painful ordeal of a sick baby. Knowing a few basic things may be just what you need to get you through the crisis, so we’ve prepared a few tips that will help you.

1. Have a good baby thermometer on hand. There are great ones available that you simply lay across the baby’s forehead, making it so easy to get a temperature reading. My mom told me that when she was having children it was very difficult to get a good temperature reading because I squirmed and fussed so much making it impossible for her to keep the thermometer in place. Thank goodness those days are over! Go to the drug store and get one of the later kinds and baby won’t even know you’re taking his temp.

2. Have on hand liquid Motrin or Tylenol (as instructed by your health care provider) in case the baby’s temperature is high. Always use your doctor’s guidelines as to how high it should be prior to giving medication. In my opinion, however, if the fever reaches 103 it is time to take him to the doctor – or emergency room if after hours.

3. Have on hand a suction cup to remove mucus in the baby’s nose. Ask your doctor about soothing rubs and decongestants that will help the little on to breathe better.

4. Purchase  a good humidifier to have on hand when your baby needs it. These are great for times when the baby has a cold or bad cough.

5. Keep the doctor’s numbers right by the phone in case you need to call him. Nothing is worse than trying to find a number when your baby is screaming for your attention.

6. Make sure your husband or other family members know how to contact your health care provider and also which pharmacy you use for filling prescriptions. You don’t want to stop caring for your sick baby to run to the drug store. Also, inquire of your pharmacy if they will deliver medications. Some will do that.

7. Bottom line – Be Prepared. You baby will get sick. That’s a fact of life. So, have the necessary tools on hand to care for you baby and it will be a lot easier on both of you.