How is umbilical cord care managed in newborns?

The management of umbilical cord care in newborns involves keeping the area clean and dry until it falls off naturally. This is crucial because the umbilical stump is susceptible to infection during the healing process. Keeping it dry promotes faster healing and reduces the risk of complications such as omphalitis, an inflammation of the umbilical stump.

The natural detachment of the umbilical cord typically occurs within the first few weeks after birth. During this time, maintaining a clean environment around the stump helps prevent bacteria from causing infections. Parents and caregivers should avoid covering the stump completely to allow air circulation, which aids in drying and healing.

Other options suggest practices that may not be beneficial. For example, covering the area at all times can trap moisture and increase the risk of infection. Applying alcohol daily is also not recommended since it can irritate the skin around the stump and delay the healing process. Similarly, attempting to remove the cord prematurely is unsafe and can lead to bleeding or infection. Therefore, the best practice is to keep the area clean and dry until it falls off naturally, promoting healthy healing in the newborn.