Step 1: Gather the necessary supplies
Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
- Bulb syringe or nasal aspirator
- Saline nasal drops
- Tissues or soft baby wipes
Step 2: Prepare your baby
Lay your baby in a comfortable position, such as on their back or with their head slightly elevated. Make sure your baby is calm and relaxed before proceeding. You may want to distract them with a toy or gentle lullaby.
Step 3: Administer saline drops
Hold the saline nasal drops in one hand and gently squeeze a few drops into one nostril of your baby. Allow the saline solution to loosen the mucus for a few seconds. Repeat this process for the other nostril.
Step 4: Suction out the mucus
Take the bulb syringe or nasal aspirator and squeeze the bulb to expel any air. Insert the tip of the syringe gently into your baby’s nostril. Release the bulb slowly to suction out the mucus. Repeat this process for the other nostril.
Step 5: Clean the syringe or aspirator
After each use, clean the bulb syringe or nasal aspirator thoroughly with warm soapy water. Rinse it well and allow it to air dry. This is important to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Step 6: Comfort and soothe your baby
Once you have completed the nasal cleansing, comfort and soothe your baby. You can cuddle them, sing a gentle song, or offer them a pacifier to help them relax.
Nasal cleansing is a simple yet essential practice to ensure the well-being of your newborn. By following these step-by-step instructions and using the video guide, you can effectively perform nasal cleansing, relieving congestion and promoting better breathing for your baby. Remember to always use gentle motions and provide comfort during the process. With a little practice, nasal cleansing will become a breeze!