Question
My baby has suddenly contracted tetanus. I’m so scared. My baby is my life. I don’t know what to do. Could you please tell me how to care for a newborn with tetanus?
Answer
Caring for a newborn with tetanus involves the following points:
- During feeding, hold the baby in a semi-upright position. Observe their color, breathing, and swallowing. After feeding, hold the baby for a while and then place them on their right side to observe for 10-15 minutes to prevent choking and vomiting. Gradually increase the amount of milk and feeding frequency until they return to normal.
- Additionally, give the child a warm bath daily. Use your hands to massage the spasming muscles. This not only keeps the skin clean and dry but also makes the child feel comfortable, reduces the excitability of the nervous system, and prevents spasms. At the same time, holding the baby more often and touching their skin can satisfy their “skin hunger” and promote their physical and mental recovery.