12.11.4: Changing a Diaper
After feeding, change the baby’s diaper. Always wear gloves when changing a baby’s diaper. Remove and discard the soiled diaper. Do not leave the baby unattended to discard the diaper. You can set it aside and discard it later if a garbage can is not within reach. Cleanse the baby’s perineal area with a warm, wet washcloth or baby wipes. Ensure the perineal area is completely clean and completely dry. Leaving urine or feces on a baby can lead to diaper rash or infection.Always wipe from front to back for female babies. Apply powder, ointment, or cream as directed in the Care Plan.
Unfold the diaper and place it flat under the baby’s bottom. To place the diaper under the baby’s bottom, gently grasp her feet in your hands and lift just high enough to slide the diaper under her bottom. The tabs should be toward the back of the diaper, on either side of the baby. Pull the front of the diaper up, between the baby’s legs. Fold the right and left sides of the diaper toward the middle. Peel tape on the tabs open and secure diaper by gently pressing them against the front of the diaper.
Replace any soiled clothing with clean clothing. Ensure the baby is placed in a safe area, such as her crib.
Documenting the Baby’s Intake and Output
Input can be measured by measuring the amount you put in the bottle and subtracting the amount of fluid left. Output is usually recorded by number of diapers for urine output and number of bowel movements. Some agencies may require that you weigh the wet diaper. Record and report any observations, such as changes in the baby’s feeding habits, difficulty for the baby sucking during feeding, or an unusual amount of spit up.
- Discard any formula remaining in the bottle. Wash the bottle, nipple, and ring in hot, soapy water with a bottle brush. Rinse well. Sterilize it before using again.
- Discard gloves and wash your hands.