When to Call for Problems in Newborns: Care Instructions
Your baby may need medical care if they have any of these signs. Call your baby's doctor or nurse advice line if you have any questions.
![](https://content.ca.healthwise.net/resources/13.8/en-ca/media/medical/hw/aco0636_120x120.jpg)
Call the doctor or nurse advice line now if your baby:
- Has an armpit (axillary) temperature that is less than 36.0°C (96.8°F) or that is 38°C (100.4°F) or higher.
- Seems hot, but you can't take their temperature.
- Has fewer than 6 wet diapers over 24 hours.
- Looks more yellow in the whites of their eyes and their skin after 3 or 4 days of birth, and is acting very sleepy with feeds.
- Has pus or reddish skin on or around the umbilical cord.
- Has trouble breathing (for example, breathing faster than usual).
![](https://content.ca.healthwise.net/resources/13.8/en-ca/media/medical/hw/aco0637_120x120.jpg)
Watch closely for changes in your baby's health, and contact the doctor or nurse advice line if your baby:
- Cries in an unusual way or for an unusual length of time.
- Is rarely awake.
- Does not wake up for feedings, seems too tired to eat, or isn't interested in eating.
- Is very fussy.
- Seems sick.
- Is not having regular bowel movements.
Write down this information. Share it with your baby's doctor.
![](https://content.ca.healthwise.net/resources/13.8/en-ca/media/medical/hw/aco1943_300x196.jpg)
Your baby's birth date:
Date and time your baby started having problems:
![](https://content.ca.healthwise.net/resources/13.8/en-ca/media/medical/hw/aco1944_300x196.jpg)
Problems your baby has:
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter C456 in the search box to learn more about "When to Call for Problems in Newborns: Care Instructions".
Adaptation Date: 9/11/2023
Adapted By: Alberta Health Services
Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services