Infant related health precautions
GET TO 100% TO EARN YOUR COURSE BADGE 0% BADGES
MG_5152When you are taking care of children, you will always need to be careful of germs and bacteria, but infants require some extra effort. Here are some ways to keep an infant healthy and well.
Feeding infants
If you are taking care of more than one baby, keep each infant’s bottle separate. It’s a good idea to put the baby’s name on the bottle to avoid confusion. Never let a baby share a bottle. Also, if you are feeding solid food to more than one infant or toddler at a meal, be sure to use a different spoon for each child you feed. Sharing spoons is another way to spread germs.
Always speak with your host family about their feeding and diapering preferences.
Diapering
When you are changing the baby’s diaper, you need to keep the baby safe and stop germs from spreading around. Start by watching how the parents change diapers and pay close attention to these pointers:
AN9A4150Wipe down the surface where you changed the diaper; ask your host family how they want you to clean it after each use.
Ask your host parents if they want you to wash the baby’s bottom with a clean, wet cloth or disposable wipes after a diaper change.
Put dirty diapers in a plastic-lined container with a tight-fitting top. It’s good to empty the container every day. Your host parents will explain the laundry routine.
Always be sure that used diapers are kept away from children and pets.
After changing the baby’s diaper, wash your hands and the baby’s hands.
Keeping the baby safe
The baby should never be alone. Be sure to have all your supplies close by before you start. If you are using a table, keep at least one hand on the baby at all times even if there are straps or rails on the sides. Some infants or toddlers are easier to change if they have a toy to hold.