Neonatal Hygiene Care in the Transition Period: From Traditional Practices to Clinical-Based Recommendations
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Abstract
Neonatal hygiene care during the transitional period is crucial for maintaining
physiological stability. This academic article aims to review the literature and
present practice guidelines by comparing traditional approaches with clinical
indication-based recommendations to prevent hypothermia in healthy term
neonates. Data were collected from academic databases spanning the years 2021
to 2026.
The review findings indicate that nursing care based on physiological readiness
(body temperature ≥ 36.5 °C) yields superior outcomes compared to traditional
time-based routines. Key recommendations include delaying the first bath for at
least 6 to 24 hours, and utilizing a sponge bath under a radiant warmer
combined with the application of virgin olive oil to preserve skin moisture and
vernix caseosa. An exception applies in cases of maternal infection, where
immediate bathing is mandated for infection control.
In conclusion, transitioning care practices from habitual routines to clinical
indication-based guidelines not only mitigates the incidence of neonatal
hypothermia but also elevates safety standards and promotes optimal clinical
outcomes for newborns.
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