Newborn Essentials

Newborn Essentials is a concise, practical guide to newborn care. Intended for first-time parents, this synopsis of best-evidence baby care provides guidance for those navigating the challenges of the newborn period. What distinguishes this book from others, however, is that each concept is supported by evidence from the medical literature. Here the reader will learn not only how to care for a newborn, but why each concept is important, and when to be concerned. Part I begins with the fundamentals-providing a safe, nurturing home environment for mother-infant bonding. Chapter 2 explores various aspects of growth and nutrition, including the benefits and challenges of breastfeeding. In chapter 3, the author discusses the important link between the quality of human interactions and early brain development. Chapter 4 examines common pregnancy complications, and how these impact the transition from fetal to newborn life. In chapter 5, the transitional period is discussed in greater detail, and how it relates to discharge readiness. Chapter 6 is a review of conditions frequently encountered after delivery, especially those that can delay hospital discharge. Part I concludes with chapter 7, a review of conditions commonly encountered in the first six months. The emphasis, throughout the book, is on healthy, full-term newborns, as the vast majority of infants are born between 39- and 40 weeks gestation, with all the usual signs of health and well-being. Part II explores the more challenging aspects of care, such as prematurity (chapter 8), sudden unexpected infant death (chapter 9), and the care of infants with birth defects or disabilities (chapter 10). Whereas potentially avoidable complications are discussed with a view to minimizing risk, the author conveys an more optimistic view of conditions that are generally unavoidable. Chapter 11 includes a concise review of evidence regarding the benefits and potential risks of childhood vaccines. Part II concludes with a summary of important concepts, and practical ways to prepare for this life-changing journey. Part III includes a brief summary of conditions that deserve a formal evaluation by a pediatrician (Appendix A), and a brief summary of the most common birth defects (Appendix B). Inspired by conversations with family and friends, and over 25 years of clinical practice, this volume is intentionally brief to emphasize important concepts, which are easily lost in the "noise" of the unimportant. While these concepts are important, the good news is that they are easily learned and applied to a wide range of circumstances. In the span of time it takes to read this book, the reader will learn to provide safe, developmentally appropriate newborn care - and thereby gain the peace of mind that comes from understanding what is important - and what is not - in the care of a newborn.