NEWBORN WARNING SIGNS
Newborn babies go through many changes as they are getting used to the world around them. Some babies may be fussy and other calm. Your baby’s temperment will have a lot to do with how your baby reacts to these changes. Most of the time babies adjust very well. However, there are some warning signs that you should be aware of an watch for.
They are:
• No urine in the first 24 hours at home. This can be difficult to assess, especially with disposable diapers.
• No bowel movement in the first 48 hours.
• A rectal temperature over 100.4 degrees F (38 degrees C) or less than 97.5 degrees F (36.5 degrees C).
• A rapid breathing rate over 60 per minute, or a blue coloring that does not go away. Newborns normally have irregular respirations, so you need to count for a full minute. There should be no pauses longer than about ten seconds between breaths.
• Retractions, or pulling in of the ribs with respirations.
• Wheezing, grunting, or whistling sounds while breathing.
• Odor, drainage, or bleeding from the umbilical cord.
• Yellow coloring of the eyes, chest, or extremities.
• Crying, irritability, or twitching which does not improve with cuddling and comfort.
• A sleepy baby who cannot be awakened enough to nurse or nipple.
• Any signs of sickness (for example, cough, diarrhea, pale color).
• The baby's appetite or suck becomes poor or weak.
Every child is different, so trust your knowledge of your child and call your child's doctor if you see signs that are worrisome to you.
Resources
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Disclaimer
This information is for general purposes only and should not be construed as a substituted for professional advice from your health professional. We do not support self-diagnosis based on any information found in this fact sheet. We are not responsible for any self-diagnosis made by a reader based on information found in this fact sheet. It is merely meant to be an informational tool to present warning signs that should be brought to the attention of a medical doctor.