d. Observe for cord detachment. The cord detaches in ten to fourteen days.
The cord dries faster when left uncovered. Have the parents roll the infant's diaper
down some in front initially so the cord is not covered.
e. Observe for signs of infection and report findings immediately. The signs of
infection are purulent drainage, redness, and possible swelling (more than usual).
8-9.
a. Bonding should be initiated in the delivery room.
b. The significant other should be allowed to participate in as much of the care
as possible during the admission process to develop the bond between him and the
infant.
c. Transport the infant back to the mother as soon as local policy allows to take
advantage of the alert state newborns have during those first few hours after birth.
(1) This is considered a critical time for both individuals to interact and get to
know one another.
(2)
It is an excellent time to establish breast-feeding while the infant is
awake.
(3) Approximately the first four hours after delivery, the infant returns to a
sleep state or less alert state.
8-10. INFANT BAPTISM
a. Baptism is performed for infants who are in imminent danger of death and
whose parents are Roman Catholic or certain other Christian denominations.
b. The nurse may perform the baptism by pouring a small amount of warmed
water on the infant's head and saying, "I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of
the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." A record of the baptism is made in SF 510, Nursing
Notes. The parents are notified about the baptism.
8-11. COMPLETE INSPECTION OF THE NEWBORN
A complete inspection of the newborn infant is performed within 24 hours after
delivery. The goal is to compile a complete record of the newborn that will act as a
database for subsequent assessment and care.
a. Assemble necessary equipment.
(1)
Pediatric stethoscope.
MD0922
8-14