The newborn period involves rapid adaptation to life outside the womb. Screening for critical conditions, feeding support, and careful monitoring are priorities.
Critical newborn screening
Feeding establishment
Jaundice monitoring
Infection prevention
Developmental assessment
Newborn screening panel (blood spots)
Congenital heart disease screening (pulse oximetry)
Hearing screening
Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) screening
Bilirubin levels
Physical examination
Hepatitis B (dose 1)
BCG (varies by country)
Exclusive breastfeeding or formula feeding on demand (8–12 times daily). Newborns typically lose 5–7% of birth weight in first few days, regaining by 2 weeks.
Learn proper feeding and burping techniques
Keep umbilical cord stump clean and dry
Maintain warm environment (skin-to-skin care)
Monitor for signs of infection or jaundice
Establish safe sleep practices (back sleeping, firm surface)
Respond to baby's cues for feeding and comfort