Question

The newborn has been crying continuously, refusing to eat, and has a pale complexion with a body temperature of 39.3 degrees shortly after birth. How should we handle this situation?

Answer

Hello, regarding the situation you described, a newborn’s body temperature reaching 37.3 degrees, sometimes exceeding 37.3 degrees, is normal. Generally, the normal temperature range for infants is between 36 degrees and 37.2 degrees, so a temperature of 37.3 degrees is still considered normal and there is no need to worry excessively. It is recommended to frequently hydrate your baby and take physical cooling measures. Physical cooling methods include gently wiping your baby’s forehead, neck, chest, back, inguinal area, armpits, and limbs with warm towels. The wiping should be continuous for more than 10 minutes each time, and the baby’s temperature changes should be monitored consistently.