12.11.1: Procedure- Handling the Infant

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Erin O'Hara-Leslie, Amdra C. Wade, Kimberly B. McLain and Tera Doty-Blance, SUNY Broome

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Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides may work with families who have an infant whom they must help care for.Sometimes, a mother or other caretaker may not be available to help care for the infant. They may also have health issues which prevent them from caring for the infant at that time. Always keep in mind family, cultural, religious, and social differences. Be respectful of the family’s beliefs, customs, and wishes. Remember, it is their child. The Home Health Aide/Personal Care Aide is there to provide support and to help care for the infant.

When caring for a baby, it is very important for Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides to be conscious of ensuring they prevent the spread of bacteria. Infants do not have a fully developed immune system. They are at very high risk for getting an infection. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should always wash their hands before and after handling a baby, their clothing, bottles, and equipment. Wear gloves when providing diaper and bath care.

Infants require constant supervision. They are not able to protect or care for themselves. Never leave a baby unattended, especially when providing a bath. The only safe place to leave a baby is in their crib lying on their back with their face up or with an adult holding them. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should always ensure they lift and hold a baby safely. The head, neck, and back must always be supported. When traveling with a baby, the HHA/PCA must ensure the infant travels in a car seat specific to the baby’s weight. The infant should be secured in the car seat prior to the car being started.

When feeding a baby, remember to keep their head higher than their body to prevent choking. Babies must be burped in between and after feedings. This helps to prevent choking and aids with digestion. Follow the feeding schedule as directed by the caretaker and Care Plan. When they are finished feeding and burping the baby, they should change his/her diaper. Concerns about the well-being or safety of the baby should be documented and brought to the attention of the supervisor.