Postnatal Care at Hospital

Postnatal Care at Hospital

Caring for the newborn in the nursery

The following clinical parameters are monitored, starting in the delivery room and continuing in the mother’s room or nursery: Temperature, Respiratory Rate, Heart Rate, Blood pressure, Oxygen Saturation and Skin Color.

General assessment:
Newborn admitted to the Nursery should have a thorough evaluation performed within 24 hours of birth, to identify any abnormalities or conditions that may alter the newborn health status and require further interventions (e.g., birth defects, birth injuries, jaundice, cardiopulmonary disorders, and signs of sepsis). The assessment of the newborn will be discussed in detail with the family.

Eye care

To prevent the risk of conjunctivitis (inflammation of the sclera) for the newborn, by using eyes antibiotic ointment once after birth.

Vitamin K

Is recommended for all newborns to prevent bleeding.

Hepatitis B vaccination

Is recommended for all newborns.

Audiological Assessment

Hearing test is done to every newborn to assess hearing functions.

Newborn screening

The Newborn Screening prior to discharge includes the followings:

• Blood sample collected 24 hours after birth: to detect any hereditary or Metabolic disease.
• Pulse Oximetry Screening: to detect congenital heart disease.
• Screening for increased level of bilirubin: to detect jaundice.
• Screening for low blood glucose (in high-risk neonates).

Bathe

Common practice is to delay the first bathing for 24 hours after birth.

Note: Your baby’s vaccination card will be electronic on “Sehhaty” Platform, and the vaccination will appear in the newborn’s account on the platform within 7 to 10 days from the date of issuance of the birth certificate.

During admission, the mother will be taught how to care for the navel, bathe the baby, breastfeeding, ensuring that milk production has begun, and answering the new mother’s questions.

Follow-up

• Routine follow-up appointment within a week after discharge.
• Follow up the pending result of the Newborn Screening within 5 days after birth.