How to Treat Diaper Rash in Newborns
What intervention should be implemented to treat the diaper rash on a newborn's skin?
a) Use products such as talcum powder with each diaper change
b) Expose the newborn's bottom to air several times a day
c) Place the newborn's buttocks in warm water after each void or stool
d) Use only baby wipes to cleanse the perianal area
Answer:
The best intervention for a diaper rash in a newborn is to expose the baby's bottom to air several times a day.
To best treat a newborn's diaper rash, the nurse should instruct the parent to expose the newborn's bottom to air several times a day. This process, often termed as 'airing out', helps the irritated skin to heal due to less contact with moisture and bacteria from a wet diaper. Using baby wipes or talcum powder could potentially irritate the skin further. A gentle soak in warm water after each stool is also a good method of cleaning.
The application of talcum powder is not advisable as it could be inhaled by the baby, leading to lung-related concerns. Using baby wipes is also discouraged as wipes may contain alcohol or perfumes which can further irritate the skin. Soaking the baby's buttocks in warm water after each void or stool is a good cleaning alternative, providing a gentle and effective cleansing method.