Episode 9 | Does My Baby Need To See a Doctor?

Podcast Episode 9: Does My Baby Need To See a Doctor?

Today, we’re discussing a topic that can often cause worry and uncertainty for new parents: when to seek medical help for your sick baby.

So, your beautiful new baby is sick, and you’re not sure if you should see the doctor or not. It’s understandable to feel concerned, especially when your little one is so small and precious.

But remember, you are your baby’s expert. You know when they’re not behaving as usual, and you should trust your instincts.

Here are some signs that indicate your baby needs urgent medical attention:

• Any difficulty breathing
• Less than five wet nappies in 24 hours
• Vomiting and not keeping down feeds
• Diarrhoea not improving
• Pale or bluish skin tone
• Limp or lethargic
• Temperature over 38 degrees Celsius
• Stiff neck
• Red or purple rash that doesn’t fade when pressed gently
• Fit or seizure

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to act quickly. Here’s how you can seek medical help:

• Call 000 if the situation is urgent and serious and ask for an ambulance.
• Go to the emergency department at your closest hospital.
• If the situation is less urgent, see your GP during clinic hours.
• After hours, you can try the National Home Doctor Service for in-home, bulk-billed visits by calling 13SICK (137425) only available some areas.

Depending on the severity and the time of day, you may choose to wait until the following morning to call your GP or visit a local Emergency Department. Remember, they will usually see a young baby quite quickly.

Keep in mind that small babies can dehydrate very quickly, is your baby still drinking milk, breast or bottle and are they passing plenty of urine?

If the doctor examines your baby and sends you home, reassuring you that your baby will be okay, that’s the best outcome. Never feel like you’ve overreacted. Your baby’s health is precious, and it’s better to err on the side of caution.

If after seeing a doctor you still feel like your baby is very sick, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion. Trust your intuition. It’s better to be safe than sorry. You can also request a referral to a paediatrician, a specialist in the care of babies, children, and adolescents.

Over the first year of life, most babies will experience many different illnesses, including cold viruses. This helps their immune system to develop.

Tip to remember to keep your baby well:

• Handwashing is crucial to reduce the spread of illness. Hand sanitiser is very helpful as you can apply it without having to leave your baby and get to running water.
• Keep your baby’s immunisations up to date.
• Have regular visits with your maternal and child health nurse
• Attend a first aid course aimed at parents.
• Get to know and trust your family GP.

In conclusion, you will get to know when to take your baby to the doctor and when to watch and wait. Be guided by your knowledge, heart, and intuition. Your baby is precious and needs you to protect them.

Remember, you’re doing an amazing job as a parent, and it’s okay to seek support when you need it. That is what we’re here for.

Connect With Me:

Web: www.BelindaJoyce.com
Facebook: @BelindaJoyceMidwife
Instagram: @belinda_joyce_midwife
TikTok: @belinda_joyce_midwife

Download Belinda’s FREE Baby Bundle:

• Checklists for baby equipment, hospital bag, nappy bag, travel & childcare bag
• Newborn Sleep Flowchart-what to do next
• Baby Feed & Sleep Tracker

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