Care of the umbilical cord.
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The umbilical cord is cut soon after birth.
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After its cut, the cord starts drying out and slowly detaches from the baby by 7- 10 days.
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Never pull the cord or even touch the area with dirty hands
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If this area gets infected, it becomes an emergency
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You might have to do this 3- 4 times a day.
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It is very important to keep the cord dry and clean
EQUIPMENT
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Glove/ gown
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Galiput/ clean container
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Sterile water
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Cotton gauze
METHOD
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Place the baby on the baby mat.
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Undress the baby from the feet upwards to the waist(above the umbilicus)
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The nappy can be loosened such that the front end of the nappy is below the cord
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Look at the cord for any signs of infection or bleed.
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Now holding the end of the cord(the clip), gently lift the cord and clean around it with a clean cotton wool.
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Using a fresh cotton swab, wipe the cord to dry it.leave the cord exposed and be careful while putting back the nappy.
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It might help if you fold the front of the nappy area below the level of the cord to prevent the nappy scraping the cord.
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Now dress the baby