When I adopted a pair of twins, one of the first things that struck me was how many doctor's appointments they needed to go to. As we took them to all of their baby well-checks, I realised that these appointments were designed to find and address issues early before they caused other problems. Fortunately, our family paediatrician found a few critical problems that we were able to resolve head-on, and it was immensely helpful. Check out this blog for information about health care, preventative care, and helping your child to enjoy a better life. I know that some of these tips helped me, and I know that they can help you too.
Bringing a baby into the world is a wonderful experience, but it can also be physically and emotionally overwhelming. Preparation is key, so you may spend the months leading up to your baby's birth shopping and organizing. Unfortunately, many parents are still not ready to bring their baby home for the first time even though so much time is spent preparing. With this guide and your pediatrician's help, you'll learn a few must-haves you will need to bring your baby home from the hospital.
Approved Car Seat
First and foremost, you will need a car seat that can transport your newborn home in your car safely. This car seat not only needs to be sized specifically for newborns, but it also needs to be approved by your specific state.
Infants must be in a rear-facing car seat. Convertible car seats are also options to consider, since they can be installed in a rear-facing manner. These seats can also convert to front-facing as your baby grows and develops.
The harness inside the seat is also an important factor to consider. Most experts recommend a 5-point harness, which secures your newborn in the safe in the most effective manner possible.
The hospital staff and your pediatrician can help you determine if the car seat is approved and installed properly in your vehicle. However, you should check your state's specific requirements, as well.
Crib/Bassinet
Many parents will already have a nursery set up for their baby beforehand, but you may prefer to have your newborn closer to you when they first come home.
Cribs are usually placed in a nursery or near your own bedroom. If the nursery is located across the home, consider investing in a bassinet, which can be moved to other locations of the home.
Set up the bassinet next to your own bed or in an area that is closer than the baby's actual nursery. The bassinet will also allow you to keep your baby close without feeling the need to place them in your own bed, which can be dangerous and even life-threatening.
Medical Supplies
No matter how healthy your baby is, they may develop colds and illnesses at an early age. Therefore, you need to have the right tools to diagnose and treat their discomfort.
Make sure you have a good-quality thermometer that can read temperatures accurately. A digital thermometer that can be placed inside your baby's ear or a traditional model that is placed under your baby's arm or in their rectum are best.
You should also keep your pediatrician's phone number nearby, so you can contact them with any questions or concerns that may arise. If your newborn does have a fever, you may need to bring them in to your local emergency room.
For more information, contact companies like Port City Pediatrics.
Share1 June 2018
