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.
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).
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.
Your baby's birth date:
Date and time your baby started having problems:
Problems your baby has:
For 24/7 nurse advice and general health information call Health Link at 811.
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: 09/11/2023
Adapted By: Alberta Health Services
Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services
