Newborn warning signs

Your newborn baby is going through many changes getting used to life in the outside world. Almost always this adjustment goes well; however, there are certain warning signs you should watch for. Some general warning signs with newborns include:

• 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 doesn't go away. Newborns normally have irregular respirations, so you need to count for a full minute. There should be no pauses longer than about five 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 doesn't improve with cuddling and comfort
• a sleepy baby who cannot be awakened enough to nurse or nipple
• any signs of sickness (cough, diarrhea, pale color)
• your 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 physician if you see signs that are worrisome to you.