The umbilical cord; At birth, it is cut 1.5-2 cm above the baby's skin, clamped, a clean bandage is wrapped on it, within days it loses its shiny, jelly-like shape and turns brown, dries and within 1-3 weeks. It will fall off on its own.
An important cause of newborn infections is bacteria colonizing around the umbilical cord, so after birth, the umbilical cord should be kept CLEAN AND DRY and its care should be done at least once a day.
>Due to its strong antiseptic properties, easy accessibility and low cost, 70% solution of ethyl alcohol is recommended in many centers for umbilical care.
Before performing the care, be sure to HANDS SHOULD BE WASHED. Care should be taken once a day for both the bottom and top of the umbilical cord by turning the clamp left and right with an alcohol solution poured on a clean cotton or bandage. It may cause it to fall late, it should not be forgotten. It should be noted that if the alcohol solution is not suitable for navel care, it may cause skin irritation.
Some studies also argue that leaving the navel dry and clean in the open is sufficient, and that the antiseptics and alcohol solution used for navel care cause the navel to fall off late.
If you can keep it really clean and dry, maintenance can be omitted. Povidin Iodine solution should never be used for umbilical care. The diaper should be tied so that the umbilical stump remains exposed. The baby can be bathed before the belly button falls, but the umbilical cord should be protected while washing and dried immediately after bathing.
If there is redness around the umbilical stump,
immediately Consult a specialist physician.
If the umbilical cord has not fallen off in the third week, if there is bleeding after the fall, if there is a bright yellow appearance in the navel after the fall and if there is discharge, consult a specialist physician.
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