Newborn Pneumonia Care Tips Every Parent Should Know
Newborn pneumonia is one of the most serious health threats for infants. Due to differences in disease progression and physiological characteristics compared to older children and adults, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention once pneumonia is suspected. In addition to professional treatment, proper home care plays a vital role in recovery. Here are essential care tips every parent should follow.
1. Maintain an Optimal Room Environment
To support your baby's recovery, the room temperature should be kept between 72°F and 75°F (22°C to 24°C). Humidity levels should be maintained at 50-60% to prevent dry airways and thickened mucus. Ensure the room is well-ventilated but avoid direct drafts that could cause chills. Overheating or stuffy conditions can worsen symptoms such as coughing and breathing difficulties, so it's important to keep the environment balanced and comfortable.
2. Monitor Vital Signs Closely
Keep a close eye on your baby's heart rate and breathing patterns. Signs such as bluish lips or frothy secretions around the mouth require immediate medical intervention. Early detection and timely response can significantly improve outcomes and prevent complications.
3. Proper Positioning for Easier Breathing
Regularly changing your baby's position can help clear secretions and improve breathing. Keeping the baby in a semi-upright position helps maintain an open airway. Positional therapy, or postural drainage, uses gravity to help move mucus from smaller airways to larger ones where it can be more easily removed. Different positions are used depending on the affected lung area. Changing position every two hours, including some time in a prone (tummy-down) position, can help improve oxygenation and secretion clearance.
4. Manage Feeding with Care
Infants with pneumonia may experience reduced appetite and digestive issues. Feed your baby slowly and patiently, ensuring they receive enough fluids and calories. If feeding becomes too difficult, intravenous hydration may be necessary to prevent dehydration and support recovery.
5. Keep Your Baby Hydrated
Due to increased breathing rate, fever, and sweating, newborns with pneumonia lose more fluids than usual. Offering extra water (as advised by a doctor) can help thin mucus, moisten the throat, and promote easier breathing. Proper hydration also supports overall recovery and prevents complications.
6. Provide Oxygen as Needed
If your baby has low oxygen levels, supplemental oxygen may be required. Oxygen therapy should be warmed and humidified before delivery through a nasal cannula. Oxygen levels should be maintained between 50-80 mmHg, and the flow rate should be adjusted based on your baby's condition and blood oxygen saturation levels.
7. Clear Nasal Passages Gently
Check your baby's nostrils regularly for blockages or dry mucus. If nasal crusts are present, use a moistened cotton swab to gently remove them. Keeping the nasal passages clear helps your baby breathe more easily and improves feeding and sleep quality.