A nurse is teaching a client who is postpartum about caring for their newborn’s umbilical cord. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
A. Cover the cord with the upper edge of the diaper.
B. Apply petroleum jelly around the cord with every diaper change.
C. Report minor bleeding when the cord’s stump falls off.
D. Wash the area around the base of the cord with water.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is D. Wash the area around the base of the cord with water.
Explanation:
Proper care of the newborn’s umbilical cord is crucial for preventing infection and ensuring the cord stump falls off naturally. Here’s a detailed explanation of why option D is the correct choice and why the other options are not recommended:
- Wash the area around the base of the cord with water (Option D): This is the appropriate method for caring for the umbilical cord stump. The area should be cleaned with plain water during each diaper change, ensuring that the base of the cord is kept clean and dry. This practice helps prevent infections and promotes the natural drying and detachment of the stump. The use of soap or other cleansers is generally not recommended as they can irritate the sensitive skin around the cord stump.
- Cover the cord with the upper edge of the diaper (Option A): This practice is incorrect. The diaper should be folded down below the cord stump to keep it dry and exposed to air. Covering the cord with the upper edge of the diaper can cause irritation, prevent proper drying, and increase the risk of infection.
- Apply petroleum jelly around the cord with every diaper change (Option B): This recommendation is outdated and not advised. Petroleum jelly or any other ointments can create a moist environment, which can increase the risk of infection. The current practice is to keep the area clean and dry without applying any substances to the cord stump.
- Report minor bleeding when the cord’s stump falls off (Option C): Minor bleeding is typically not expected when the umbilical cord stump falls off. The stump should dry out and fall off on its own, usually within the first few weeks after birth, without significant bleeding. If there is noticeable bleeding or if the area becomes red, swollen, or emits a foul odor, it is important to contact a healthcare provider as these could be signs of an infection.
In summary, washing the area around the base of the cord with water and keeping it dry is the best practice for umbilical cord care. It helps in preventing infection and promotes proper healing.