Routine Care of the Neonatal Unit

To keep the umbilical stump clean and prevent infection.

Required Materials:

✔ 70% ethyl alcohol
✔ Sterile basin
✔ Sterile gauze
✔ Sterile dressing
✔ Gloves
✔ Clean diaper

Steps:

✔ Wash hands routinely.
✔ Prepare materials.
✔ Soak sterile gauze in 70% ethyl alcohol in a sterile basin.
✔ Place the newborn on their back and open the diaper.
✔ Wear gloves.
✔ Inspect the umbilical cord for discharge, bleeding, redness, or foul odor, and report any abnormalities to the doctor.
✔ Hold the umbilical stump upright (without pulling).
✔ Clean the sides of the stump from top to bottom in one direction.
✔ Clean the base of the stump using a circular motion in one direction.
✔ Apply drops of alcohol over the umbilical stump.
✔ Leave the stump exposed to air to dry.
✔ Fold the diaper below the stump to keep it outside the diaper.
✔ Dispose of used materials properly.
✔ Wash hands and record observations (date, time, and any abnormalities).