Template only — not medical advice. Always review with a licensed healthcare professional before distributing.
Want to customize this handout for your clinic?
Sign in free to edit, add your clinic branding, and save your own version.
Newborn Checkups Family Plan For Families: Patient Guide
Summary
Welcoming a newborn into your family brings joy and a few responsibilities. Regular checkups are essential to ensure your baby is healthy and thriving. This guide provides you with practical advice on what to expect, what to do, and when to seek medical attention for your newborn.
What Is This & Why It Matters
Newborn checkups are routine visits to the pediatrician that help monitor your baby's growth and development in the first few weeks of life. These appointments are crucial as they allow healthcare providers to catch any early signs of health issues. Following the AAP 2024 guidelines, these checkups ensure that your baby receives the best start in life.
What You Should Do
- Schedule your newborn's first checkup within 48-72 hours after leaving the hospital.
- Ensure your baby is feeding well by observing frequent breastfeeding or bottle-feeding sessions.
- Practice skin-to-skin contact daily to help regulate your baby's body temperature and support bonding.
- Keep track of your baby's wet diapers; at least six wet diapers a day is a healthy sign.
- Administer acetaminophen (15 mg/kg) every 4-6 hours if your baby seems uncomfortable, after consulting with your pediatrician.
- Follow the pediatrician's guidance on vaccinations and developmental screenings.
What You Should NOT Do
- Don't ignore any signs of jaundice, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes.
- Avoid giving over-the-counter medications without consulting your doctor first.
- Refrain from letting visitors hold your baby without washing their hands first.
- Do not skip scheduled appointments with your pediatrician even if everything seems fine.
- Avoid using a baby walker as it can be unsafe for newborns.
Symptoms: Normal vs Warning Signs
Normal (Don't Worry)
- Frequent feedings, which are normal as babies have small stomachs.
- Slightly irregular sleeping patterns; newborns sleep a lot but not in continuous stretches.
- Occasional hiccups, which are common in newborns.
- Mild peeling or flaking of skin, which is typical after birth.
Call Your Doctor If...
- A fever higher than 100.4°F should prompt an immediate call to your doctor.
- Fewer than six wet diapers in 24 hours could indicate dehydration.
- Persistent yellowing of the skin or eyes suggests jaundice needs medical attention.
- Extreme lethargy or difficulty waking up may signal an underlying issue.
- Difficulty breathing or grunting sounds when breathing require urgent evaluation.
FAQ
How often should my newborn have checkups?
Your newborn should see a pediatrician within 48-72 hours after birth and regularly thereafter as advised by your doctor.
What if my baby refuses to feed?
Try feeding in a calm environment. If refusal persists, contact your pediatrician for advice.
Is jaundice common in newborns?
Yes, mild jaundice is common but should be monitored closely and discussed with your doctor if it worsens.
Why does my baby sleep so much?
Newborns sleep frequently because they need rest for growth and development. This is normal behavior.
When can I give my baby pain relief medication?
Only give acetaminophen after consulting your pediatrician about the correct dosage and necessity.
Should I wake my baby for feedings?
In the early weeks, it's often recommended to wake them every 2-3 hours if they don't wake on their own.
What vaccinations will my baby need?
Your pediatrician will guide you through the vaccination schedule based on AAP guidelines.