My Baby All The Way| For the love of babies

January 5, 2021March 16, 2021

Advice for Bathing a Newborn Baby

As the owner of this website, I have searched out some special deals for some of the products and services mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own. Full disclosure.

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Establishing a healthy parent-infant bond is an essential task in the newborn period. For the new mom, a part of this bonding includes breastfeeding your little one. I have addressed breastfeeding techniques in a prior post, including different ways to hold your baby during feeding. Please refer to the article titled Medela Breast Pump [Hospital Grade for Best Performance] for this information. Bath time is also a great way for new fathers to bond with their new babies. Most new parents are a little nervous about the very first bath for their babies, but I want to share a step-by-step technique to help you relax and enjoy bathing a newborn baby, particularly yours!

Before you bathe a newborn baby boy

When you are discharged home from the hospital with your baby boy, you will be given instructions on his care. If your son has been circumcised, you will have to care for that area as well as paying special attention to the dried umbilical cord.

Care of the umbilical cord

Give only sponge baths to your son while the umbilical cord remains. Be careful to not get it wet and keep diaper edges away from the area. You can do this by rolling the top of the diaper in about 1/4th of an inch before fastening. It is highly recommended that you give only sponge baths to your baby until the cord falls off which is approximately 10 to 14 days. Call your healthcare provider if you observe any of the following:

Bleeding
Bad odor
Redness
Drainage
The cord does not fall off after 2 weeks

Care of the area can include dipping a cotton swab in alcohol (a 70 percent solution isopropyl alcohol) and cleaning around the base of the cord including the folds of the skin, with every diaper change or the doctor may apply a special ointment on it and you may not have to do anything but keep the diaper folded back and away from the area. Consult your physician on instructions. This is only a general guide. Again, always fold the diaper back below the cord. Do not give tub baths until the cord falls off and the area is well healed.

Care of the circumcision

It is important to watch your baby for warning signs of possible complications. Call your health care provider if your infant experiences any of the following:

Swelling of the entire penis.
Bleeds more than tiny drops.
Shows clear or white drainage.
Develops a fever; rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher.

For care of the circumcision, apply the diaper loosely. Give sponge baths until healed, clean penis with clear water, and apply either A&D ointment to the area or whatever your healthcare provider recommends. Sometimes they will tell you to use an antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin or sometimes they might recommend using petroleum jelly. Check with your doctor before applying any ointment and follow the directions given.

Care of the uncircumcised penis

If you decide not to circumcise your baby boy, it is important to note that the foreskin may not be completely retractable until your child reaches preschool age and so it should never be forcibly retracted. To clean the area, simply wash his penis with non-irritating soap and water during each bath.

Bathing a newborn baby girl

If your newborn baby is a girl, you will also be discharged home from the hospital with instructions. These instructions will include the same as for the boy regarding the care of the umbilical cord area. Of course, the rest of the “specialized” instructions for baby boys will not apply for obvious reasons. However, you will be directed to do the following – always clean your infant baby girl’s diaper area from front to back. This is for preventing infections due to feces getting into the vaginal area.

Supplies for baby’s bath

Before you start, gather all the necessary materials you will need for the bath.

Click the links or pictures below to see more and pick one up for your baby today!

The bathtub I recommend is a best-seller on Amazon and is the The First Years Sure Comfort Deluxe Newborn to Toddler Tub, Teal for boys

(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)

and The First Years Sure Comfort Deluxe Newborn to Toddler Tub Pink for girls.

This bathtub for newborns has a net that lies on top which I really like for newborns, as you can lay them on the net with the water just below for easier washing.

When your baby grows a bit, remove the netting and use the tub for the bath. This will accommodate your baby until he or she is about toddler age and you can place this baby tub in your bathtub for easier and safer bathing for your child.

Pictured here is pink for girls. Please note that I have attached the links above for the teal color for boys as well as the pink color for girls.

Gather your supplies together such as baby soap, tear-free baby shampoo, baby washcloth, and hooded towel, undershirt or a onesie, infant gown, socks, receiving blanket and diaper.

Step-by-step bath instructions

After you have gathered all your supplies for your baby’s bath, it is time to fill the baby bath tub with about 3 inches of warm water. Test the water on your wrist to make sure it is not too hot.

I recommend placing the bathtub on your kitchen table after placing a plastic shower curtain liner on it first. The shower-liner on your table will protect its surface from any water that may splash on it. Place your soap, shampoo, wash cloth and towel on the table.

In your nursery, have ready your baby’s diaper, diaper ointment, undershirt or onesie, gown, socks, and receiving blanket on the changing table for after the bath.

Next, undress your baby and wrap a blanket around him (or her) to carry him to the bathtub.

Place your baby on the mesh netting keeping a hold on him with your other hand. Never walk away with your baby in the bathtub and never take your hand from him either.

Wash his face with the plain water. Next, take the wash cloth after dipping it in the water and gently wet your baby’s hair. Then take a little of the shampoo and work a small lather in your hand then gently rubbing your baby’s hair and scalp with your fingertips.

Note: if your baby has a crust on his head, do not scrape his scalp. Talk to your healthcare provider for direction for handling what we call “cradle cap.”

After lathering your baby’s scalp and hair, take the washcloth dipping it in the water, and gently squeeze the water over his head and hair with his head slightly tilted back. This will prevent any water or soap from getting into his eyes or ears.

When his hair is soap-free, take your wash cloth and add a tiny amount of soap on it and gently cleanse baby from the neck down to his toes. Afterward, taking washcloth rinsing in bathwater, and squeezing water over the baby until soap is gone.

Grab your hooded baby bath towel, lay it on the table and gently lay your baby on the towel placing the hooded part over his head and wrapping him in the towel.

Pick your baby up and take him to the nursery to dress him. After laying him on the dressing table, completely dry him off and his head/hair.

I suggest keeping the towel over his body while you diaper him first.

Next, put him in a bodysuit or I like to call them a “onesie”. Place him into the baby gown and put socks on his feet. Please note that newborns do not hold their body heat as well as we do, so it is important that you keep socks on their feet, use undershirts or onesies, socks, and receiving blankets to keep them warm.

Take your receiving blanket and lay it out, with one hand of course as you will be holding your baby with your other arm. The receiving blanket should be facing you in a triangle shape. Place your baby o the blanket with his head just below the “tip of the triangle.”

Bring the bottom of the triangle up with the tip at about the baby’s waist. Bring the right side of the blanket to the left side tucking it under your baby’s body. Next, take the left side of the blanket and wrap it around to the right side.

Your baby should look like a “wrapped burrito” after done.

This is called “swaddling.”

Final thoughts

After you do your baby’s first bath, you will be so much more confident when it’s time for the next one. It is a great time for the baby and you to bond and enjoy the bathing experience. Your baby will come to learn to love “bath time” and will look forward to it. As he or she grows older, make sure to include favorite bath toys, there are lots of them on the market. Let him play a few minutes before getting into the business of washing up.

I sure hope this article was helpful to you and alleviated any fears or nervousness about that “first bath.”

Enjoy your baby every minute and remember to take a lot of pictures along the way!

Questions or comments?

Please leave me your questions or comments in the comment section below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

Thoughtfully yours,

Evelyn

January 2, 2021March 16, 2021

What is Muscular Dystrophy?

As the owner of this website I have searched out some special deals for some of the products and services mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own. Full disclosure.

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A disease with many forms

Muscular dystrophy is not a single disease, but a general name for what is actually 9 different forms of the disease. In this article I will tell you the names of each form with a brief description and then I will discuss how it’s diagnosed, the various treatments, therapies and medications that are used for managing this disease. Lastly, I will give some recommendations for equipment that will be needed to accommodate the child with this disability. By the end of this blog, you will have the answer to “what is muscular dystrophy?” and will know a great deal more of the type of equipment you will need.

Hereditary disease

Muscular dystrophy (MD) is an inherited disease that progressively weakens the muscles that control movement also known as “voluntary muscles” with some forms of the disease affecting the organs such as the heart. Genetics play a key role in this and is responsible for the different variations.

Nine different types of MD

There are 9 different forms of MD and I will list them below with a brief explanation. All forms of this disease are inherited or in other words, linked to a genetic disorder.

1. Duchenne. This is the most common type and it mostly affects boys. Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy (DMD) is caused by a genetic flaw that affects the muscles. The symptoms usually show by age 1 to 4 and rapidly progress. Usually by 9 or 10 years of age, the child requires a wheelchair.

2. Myotonic (Steinert’s disease). This is the most common form of muscular dystrophy in adults. It can appear anywhere from early childhood to adult age. In rare cases it appears in newborns. Myotonia means stiffening of muscles or prolonged muscle spasms and symptoms will get worse in cold weather. This form of MD affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), the heart, gastrointestinal tract and hormones. With this type of MD, there is a decreased life expectancy.

3. Becker. This form is similar to Duchenne MD but is much milder. The symptoms appear later and progress more slowly. Symptoms can appear anywhere between age 2 and 16 or can appear as late as age 25. Becker muscular dystrophy affects only males (1 in 30,000) and causes heart problems. These individuals can usually walk in their late 30s and live well into late adulthood.

4. Limb-girdle. Limb-girdle MD affects both male and females and occurs anywhere from teenage years to early adulthood. The muscle weakness starts in the hips and progresses to the legs, arms and shoulders. Within a 20-year time span, the person has either a very difficult time walking or cannot walk at all. The lifespan is shortened to either middle-age or late adulthood.

5. Facioscapulohumeral. This form of MD affects the face, shoulder blades, upper arm and includes both males and females. It appears anywhere from the teenage years to early adulthood. This form can range from being very mild to severely disabling. If affecting the face, it may interfere with the ability to speak or chew. The progression of this disease can be slow with spurts of rapid muscle deterioration, however many of these people can walk throughout their lifetime and live a normal life span.

6. Congenital. Congenital means present at birth. Just as the name implies, onset of this form is “at birth” and is characterized as muscle weakness, severe shortening or shrinking of muscles that causes joint problems. These children usually have problems with seizures because the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) has been affected. Typically, these children do not attain walking and their lifespan is shortened.

7. Oculopharyngeal. This form affects the eyes and throat. Males and females are affected in their 40s, 50s and 60s and is a slowly progressing disease. It eventually will affect the ability to swallow and cause choking episodes. This group of people may also experience episodes of pneumonia.

8. Distal. This rare form affects adult men and women. It’s called distal because it affects the forearms, hands, lower legs, and feet. It is the less severe form because it progresses very slowly and affects fewer muscles than the other forms of MD.

9. Emery-Dreifuss. Onset of this form of MD is middle childhood to early teens. The progression is very slow and many survive to late adulthood. This form is rare and mostly affects boys, however because of certain gene mutations can affect girls. Disease progression involves muscle weakness and wasting in the shoulders, upper arms, and lower legs. Muscle weakness can spread to chest and pelvic muscles.

How is it diagnosed?

Children with a positive family history are especially at risk for muscular dystrophy. They should be monitored for symptoms which generally do not appear until the preschool years. There are blood tests your doctor will order looking for signs of muscle loss or deterioration. Included with the blood tests your doctor may order genetic testing for you and your child to see if either one of you has the gene causing MD. Muscle biopsy (a small piece of muscle tissue is removed) will be ordered as well for examination. Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic procedure to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons) and will be ordered along with the other tests.

How is it treated?

The therapeutic management of a child with MD is aimed at maintaining the ability to walk and have independence for as long as possible as muscle weakness progresses. Surgery, bracing, physical therapy and medications are all used in treating this disease. As the disease progresses, therapy is aimed at maximizing sitting capabilities, respiratory function and self-care. Also, prompt attention to respiratory infection, such as colds, flu or chest colds is needed to prevent serious complications.

Although there is no cure for MD, several medications will be prescribed for your child. Steroids are given to help improve muscle strength, breathing and decrease weakness. Anticonvulsants to treat and prevent seizures will also help reduce muscle spasms. Immunosuppressants may be given to help prevent some muscle cell damage. Also, medications may be prescribed for your child to target the gene dystrophin, namely Eteplirsen (Exondys 51) and golodirsen (Vyondys 53) which will likely increase the level of the gene.

Physical therapy plays a big role in treatment of this disease and helps to strengthen the muscles and joints and helps to prevent contractures (a condition of shortening and hardening of muscles, tendons, or other tissue, often leading to deformity and rigidity of joints).

Respiratory therapy is another big factor in care of a child with MD. Muscle weakness can involve the lungs and make breathing difficult. A respiratory therapist can teach you and your child how to use a nebulizer properly and also teach breathing exercises to maximize breathing capability.

Speech therapy is another area that will help your child if swallowing or speech has become a problem. The speech therapist will teach how to strengthen the facial and mouth muscles to help with swallowing and talking. When it comes to your child being able to communicate, communication boards really are a great tool and the speech pathologist/therapist will use this with your child teaching him how to communicate.

Surgery may sometimes be needed to correct either a contracture, a spine deformity, or other complications that may arise.

Braces and walkers

Braces and walkers also provide a way for your child to be mobile. Usually, physical therapists will use walkers and standers early in the treatment to provide and boost better blood flow which in turn will help build stronger bones. This is also a means for your child to be mobile and have some independence. Leg braces are fitted by orthopedic doctors and can help keep the muscles flexible, which aids in slowing the progression of contractures, which occur when a muscle and its tendon shorten and reduce flexibility.

The need for a wheelchair

The child with MD will eventually require a wheelchair. This is because weakness in the large muscle of the legs makes it difficult to stand, walk, kneel or climb. Even after your child has been fitted with leg braces, he will still need to have a wheelchair.

The home environment

Your home including the bathroom will need to be modified in order to fit a wheelchair and other necessary mobility aids your child will need. You will need to be taught how to perform basic nursing tasks and will be referred to agencies that can assist you with home care and equipment.

Please see my article for how to bathe a child with cerebral palsy as I give step-by-step instructions for bathing and I have given my recommendations for both a Hoyer lift and bath seat for these special needs kids.

Recommendations for equipment

Wheelchairs can be quite costly and you can get the very basic model up to one with all the bells and whistles. However, you can be prepared to pay a high price and insurance companies do not reimburse for the “bells and whistles.”

I was very pleased to see that Amazon has such a high-quality, affordable wheelchair for kids with special needs. This wheelchair will accommodate any child who needs good head support and reclining if unable to sit up. It is lightweight and has anti-tippers.

Lightweight Folding Children’s Wheelchair Driving Medical, Cerebral Palsy Children’s Wheelchair Car Multi-Functional Disabled Children’s Full Reclining Flat-Bed Wheelchair Stroller, with Dining Table

Product Specifications

Seat width: 38cm (15 inches)
Seat depth: 36cm (14 inches)
Weight-bearing capacity: 75kg (165 pounds)

If the specifications are right for your child, you can purchase it here.

Another great choice for a wheelchair is the Wenore Lightweight Folding Children’s Wheelchair Driving, Cerebral Palsy Children’s Wheelchair Car Multi-Function Disabled Children’s Full-Lying Flat-Bed Wheelchair Stroller.

This wheelchair not only has the tilt-in-space feature but also will open up to lay flat. Click on the link above or here to learn more about this one and purchase! It too has a great price and is affordable.

My final thoughts

It is my sincerest desire that you found this post helpful to you and I welcome you to check back often as I will be continuing to write more articles on this subject and give recommendations for other needed equipment. For this article’s purposes, I wanted to give a background on MD and its effects and what we can do to help all children live the highest quality of life possible.

Questions or comments?

Please feel free to leave me your questions or comments in the comment section below and I will get back to you as soon as I can!

Always the best for our babes,

Evelyn

December 31, 2020March 16, 2021

Bathe a Child with Cerebral Palsy

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There are many challenges a parent or caregiver will face when caring for a child with cerebral palsy. Overcoming those challenges is possible when you have the right instruction and equipment to help you. In this article, I will be focusing on one of those challenges and that is bath time. I will explain two ways to give your child a bath. One way is to do a bed bath also known as a sponge bath and the other way is to transport your child to the bathroom for a tub bath. So, here it is: How to bathe a child with cerebral palsy.

How to give a sponge bath

In a prior post, What is a Hoyer Patient Lift, I spoke about caring for your special needs child, how it can be draining at times, and the importance of seeking good support groups. Here I want to walk you through the steps to give your child a sponge bath. This is a good method for the days you just want to wash him up. I would not recommend a tub bath every day as it could dry your child’s skin too much.

Before you get started, I suggest having a little playtime and have some soft, soothing music playing. Music is good for the soul and will calm your child, making him more relaxed. We want bath time to be enjoyable for him and for you!

Have all the materials you will need at the ready such as 2 large bath towels, soap, washcloths, deodorant or talcum powder, change of clothes, and a washbasin for the water.

If it is time for your child to use the toilet, let him do that first.
Fill a washbasin two-thirds full with warm water
Take a bath blanket and use it to cover the child after removing his clothes
Start with his face using a wet washcloth (no soap) and gently wash his eyes and face
Wash forehead, cheeks, nose, neck, and ears (no soap)
Pat his face and eyes dry with a towel
Next, uncover your child’s left arm and place a bath towel under the arm
Apply a small amount of soap to the washcloth and wash his arm and armpit
Rinse the washcloth out in the basin and then rinse his arm and armpit, pat dry with the towel and recover his arm
Repeat these steps for the right arm

If child has reached puberty, apply deodorant or talcum powder to underarms
Check the temperature of the water in the basin and change if necessary (keep the water warm)
Next, apply soap to the washcloth and wash the chest, rinse and pat dry
Then wash the abdomen in the same manner as the chest and cover your child with a clean, dry bath towel
Apply clothing to your child such as a shirt or top to keep him comfortable or cover with a dry towel or blanket
Wash left leg, ankle, and foot/toes using soap and having a towel underneath his leg to keep bedding dry
Dry left leg, ankle, foot/toes, with a clean towel

Wash right leg, ankle, foot/toes using the same technique for the left leg
Inspect toenails and clip toenails if needed
Position child so that you can wash his back and buttocks (roll him onto his side and prop with a rolled towel)
Check water temperature again and change if necessary
Roll child onto his back and then apply a small amount of soap to a washcloth for washing the genitalia area
Rinse the genitalia area and pat dry with a clean towel

Next, apply warm lotion to your child’s skin (I like to put the lotion bottle immersed in a basin tub with hot water to warm while I am giving the bath)
After you have finished, remove the bath towels from underneath your child by rolling him onto his side and pushing them underneath his side, then roll him over to the other side and pull the towel out and away
Dress your child

How to give a tub bath

Gather your materials such as soap, shampoo, and conditioner, washcloth, large bath towel, a favorite bath toy, and take them to the bathroom. Have a change of clothes ready at the bedside.

Ideally, this is where the Hoyer lift and the bath chair will not only come in handy but make your life so much easier as well as your child’s The Mangar Surfer Bather Bath Lift Chair is an ideal bath chair to have on hand. You can find it at CareGiver Products.com. Install this bath chair according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Image source: CaregiverProducts.com

A side note about this bath chair. This bath chair elevates and lowers with the touch of a waterproof handheld control. It has an adjustable backrest that allows your child to lie down at the bottom of the bath. The seat provides secure support for getting in and out as well as during the bath. It has side rails and leg straps and there is an optional adjustable pommel for added leg support.

Per the manufacturer:

Mangar Surfer Bather Bath Lift Chair Specifications:

Maximum User Height: 4 feet, 5 inches.
Overall Length: 44 inches.
Seat height: 3.25 to 19 inches.
Platform Width: 14.5 to 26.5 inches.
Backrest Angle: 0 to 70 degrees.
Item weight: 19 lbs.
Maximum User Weight: 112 lbs.

Okay, now let’s get started. These directions as the above, are intended to be used if your child is at the age where he is too big to manually lift safely but not to be over 112 pounds.

Start with playtime as noted above and have soft, soothing music playing. I found this really works well for the child’s mood and frame of mind.
Have bath water ready with the water warm to the touch, not hot (test water first before bathing your child)
Next, get your Hoyer lift and bring it to your child’s bedside. You can find directions on the link for the Hoyer lift. Place the child in the transfer swing.

Bring your child to the bath seat/chair, rotate Hoyer lift sling to where your child is parallel to the bath seat.
Gently lower him down into the bath seat and unhook the sling.
Next, use the bath seat straps to secure your child in the seat.
Give your child a few minutes to just enjoy being in the bath and play games with him (bath time should be fun)
Proceed with washing him starting with his face, eyes, forehead, cheeks, nose, neck, and ears (no soap)
Next, wash his hair carefully to not get soap in his eyes or ears
Wash the rest of his body starting with the arms and working your way down

When finished, dry him off with a large bath towel and also drying his hair
Bring Hoyer lift to the bathtub, place the child in the sling (see directions in the link above for Hoyer lift)
Hook sling to Hoyer lift and bring the child to bedside
Gently lower sling into the bed, unhook when the child is in bed
Dress your child

My closing thoughts

In my nursing career working at a hospital, I have taken care of many children with severe spastic cerebral palsy. The techniques as I have listed above, work very nicely. The Hoyer (mechanical) lift and the bath chair are very necessary items you will need to have at home to care for your child in the safest way. Never try to carry your child without the help of another person or the Hoyer lift. Always think safety first and that includes you too! I have attached the link for the Hoyer lift below. And, if you need the bath chair, click this link to take you to CareGiver Products.com.

Purchase yours here!

Hoyer lift

Questions or comments?

Please leave me your questions or comments in the comment section below and I will get back to you as fast as I can!

It is my joy in helping you care for your child,

Evelyn

December 30, 2020March 16, 2021

What is a Hoyer Patient Lift?

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In my prior post, Communication Board for Children with CP (Cerebral Palsy), I spoke about the 5 types of CP. For this article I want to go into a little more detail on the most severe form – spastic quadriplegia CP and discuss treatment options – therapies and home care. Spastic quadriplegia CP means that both arms and legs are affected along with the torso (trunk) and face. Seizures are typically involved as well as trouble speaking. Also, I will be telling you about a mechanical lift that you will need for caring for your child with this form of cerebral palsy and explain the question “What is a Hoyer patient lift?”

Spastic quadriplegia CP

Spastic quadriplegia is the most severe and serious form of CP and causes the loss of use of the whole body. This is because more of the brain is affected due to extensive brain damage or congenital malformations (abnormal brain development in utero) which in turn causes the most complications. These complications include but are not limited to:

Inability to walk
Speech is profoundly affected
Swallowing is impaired
Floppy neck (no control)
Seizures
Moderate to severe learning disabilities
Communication difficulties

In addition, the pull of spastic muscles on the bones can cause severe problems. Children with this type of CP are especially prone to scoliosis which is a curvature of the spine or a back deformity.

Treatment options

There will be a team of health care professionals – pediatrician, nurse, physical therapist, occupational therapist, neurologist (a medical doctor who specializes in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating diseases that affect the nervous system which includes the brain, spinal cord and all other nerves throughout the body), speech/swallow therapist – who will work closely with the child and parents. There will be ongoing treatment plans and therapy sessions required for maximum, possible comfort and quality of life for this child.

Two of the most important goals are for comfort of the child and increasing mobility. These children almost always require surgery to correct joint dislocations and shortened muscles. Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) is a common surgery associated with children who have spastic cerebral palsy. This is a surgical treatment on the lower spinal cord to treat spasticity.

Physical therapy plays a big role in caring for these children. The goal is to provide as much independence as possible and focuses on flexibility exercises to help stretch out stiff muscles. Exercise programs will be tailored to each child’s needs and taught to caregivers to maintain these exercises at home.

Part of the daily exercise regimen will include range-of-motion (ROM) and stretching exercises to improve joint mobility and to help keep the muscles and tendons as soft as possible. Engaging in regular exercise can help improve motor function.

Occupational therapy is used to help the child’s ability to perform daily tasks such as brushing their teeth, combing their hair and other daily activities. It will help them at school too. This therapy also centers on anything that needs to be done with the hands.

Speech therapy is another important therapy as it is used to strengthen the muscles of the mouth used for speech which helps with articulation and coordination. Some children may experience difficulty swallowing with associated drooling. The speech therapist also evaluates the swallowing reflex and determines if there is a problem with difficulty swallowing food or drink.

Regarding the speech difficulties, the speech therapist will use a communication device with the child. The child will learn to use this device and it will not only build the child’s confidence, but it will improve motor and cognitive abilities, (the ability of the brain to process, retrieve, and store information). I have written about this in my prior post, Communication Board for Children with CP (Cerebral Palsy).

Caring for a chlld with spastic quadriplegia CP at home

As a parent or caregiver for a child with this form of CP, life can feel overwhelming at times. First, I want to say to you, do not hesitate to ask for help. Taking care of this special needs child is a 24/7 routine and it is okay to have help. Second, it is vitally important to have the tools you need especially as the child grows up. He will be getting larger and you will need to be able to properly lift him from bed to chair, chair to bed, etc.

Ask your doctor or nurse about a local support group that you can attend. There, you will meet other people who are dealing with the same things and you will not feel alone. It is amazing what these support groups can do for your mental well-being.

Invacare Reliant Battery-Powered Lift

What is a Hoyer lift (patient lift)?

A Hoyer lift is a brand name for “patient lift.” It is an electronic crane designed to transfer a person from bed to wheel chair, commode or bath chair and transfer back. Nurses use these in hospitals and there are Hoyer lifts designed for use at home. The Hoyer lift or patient lift can be used by one person so if you are at home with no one else to help you, it will be no problem transferring your loved one from the bed to the chair with this lift.

How do I use a patient lift?

I will give you a guided tour of how to move a patient from the bed to the wheelchair using a patient lift.

First, take the body sling and fold it in half with the smooth side on the inside. Roll the patient on his side and tuck the sling underneath his back. Then, go to the other side of the bed and roll the patient over the sling onto his other side and then pull the other half of the sling out. The sling should now be flat on the bed under the patient and then roll the patient on his back.

Next, bring the inside leg straps of the sling up and bring the outside straps up over the outside of his legs. You want the straps to be mid-thigh for the most comfortable transfer. Then cross the leg straps bringing one set of straps through the other – like an “X”.

You are now ready to attach the patient lift. Bring the lift to the bed. Lower the sling attachment bar and attach the leg straps in an “X” fashion to the attachment bar. Then attach the shoulder straps to the attachment bar.

With one arm under the patient’s legs and the other hand on the lift controls, gently raise the patient using the controls and pivot around to just above the wheel chair or regular chair and then slowly lower the patient down to the chair.

When the patient is in the chair, detach the shoulder and leg straps. Then, lean the patient to one side and roll the sling under the patient. Go to the other side of the patient, lean the patient the opposite way and lift the sling out from under the patient.

You have just transferred your patient!

Invacare Reliant Battery-Powered Lift Kit, with Large Full Body Mesh Sling

If you are in need of a good and reliable patient lift for your home, I recommend the Invacare Reliant Battery-Powered Lift Kit with Large Full Body Sling.

This patient lift is of high quality, easy to use and can hold a person up to 450 pounds. This lift comes with a full body sling so you won’t have to purchase it separately. It has many features including a 360 degree rotation and a 6-point hookup that allows for Invacare chain-free slings and older slings with chains or straps. Click here to find all the details of this lift.

Purchase your patient lift here!
Invacare Reliant Battery-Powered Lift

Conclusion and final thoughts

All children with spastic quadriplegia CP deserve to have the highest quality of life possible and they deserve all our love. They are precious children and with all the treatments available for them we can certainly do our best to keep them as comfortable and happy as possible.

You as the parent or caregiver also deserve to be as happy and need to look out for your own well-being. Taking care of a special needs child is no easy task and can be both physically and mentally draining. That is why it is important you have the necessary tools you need to make your care giving as easy and safe as can be.

I will be adding more posts on this subject in the near future in regard to other caregiving aids/tools for the care of these children. In the meantime, I hope you seriously consider getting this patient lift for your child and yourself.

Questions or comments?

Please leave me your questions or comments in the comment section below and I will respond promptly.

Yours in looking for the best for our babes,

Evelyn

December 28, 2020March 16, 2021

Communication Board for Children

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Approximately 8,000 babies in the United States are diagnosed with CP (cerebral palsy) each year. What exactly is CP you might ask? In this article I will address CP, what it is, how it’s diagnosed, how it’s treated and recommended assistive equipment for cognitive function and communication. I will introduce you to an assistive device known as a communication board which will help your child learn and communicate with others.

What is cerebral palsy (CP)?

Cerebral palsy is a disorder of posture and movement (difficulty in controlling the muscles) due to damage or injury to the brain. This brain damage can happen before, during or after birth. The area of the brain that has been injured determines the type of neuromuscular (affecting the nerves and muscle) disability.

Five types of CP

There are 5 classifications of CP and I will list them followed by a brief explanation.

1. Dyskinetic CP also known as Athetoid CP: This accounts for approximately 20% of cases of CP. It is characterized by abnormal involuntary movement and may involve all the extremities as well as the face and neck. The movements increase with stress and anxiety.

2. Spastic CP: This accounts for approximately 50% of cases of CP. It is characterized by excessive tone in the voluntary muscles, hypertonic (rigid) muscles, exaggeration of deep tendon reflexes and contractures (shortening and hardening of muscles, tendons, or other tissue, often leading to deformity and rigidity of joints). In other words, exaggerated reflexes, floppy or rigid limbs, and involuntary motions.

3. Ataxic CP: This type of CP is characterized by a loss of coordination, loss of equilibrium (balance) and inability to control movement.

4. Rigid CP: This type of CP is relatively rare in children. It is characterized by rigidity in all muscles – flexors and extensors. In a child with tremors, the tremors are apparent at both rest and during movement.

5. Mixed CP: Those diagnosed with mixed CP have damage to the motor control centers in several parts of their brain.

Warning signs of CP

Identifying infants at risk for cerebral palsy includes looking for these warning signs.

Poor head control after 3 months of age.
Stiff or rigid arms or legs.
Pushing away or arching back.
Floppy or limp body posture.
Cannot sit up without support by 8 months.
Uses only one side of body, or only the arms to crawl.
Speech and swallowing impairment – gagging or choking when fed.

Persistence of extrusion reflex – thrust tongue forward after 6 months of age – usually disappears by 3-4 months of age.
Picture of spasticity – scissoring (legs crossed, toes pointed), fists clenched, forearm flexed, upper arm pressed against wall of chest, head extended and back arched.

How is CP diagnosed?

Cerebral palsy is diagnosed by your doctor using EEG, CT or MRI along with blood tests and a thorough neurologic examination. The EEG (electroencephalogram) is a test used to evaluate the electrical activity in the brain. The EEG results allow doctors to quickly assess whether there are abnormal patterns. Any irregularities may be a sign of seizures or other brain disorders. The computed tomography (CT or CAT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans allow your doctor to see bones, blood vessels and soft tissues inside your body.

Persistent primitive reflexes (newborn reflexes), abnormal muscle tone and posture along with abnormal motor development are seen in a child with cerebral palsy. The goal of managing the child with CP is early recognition and intervention to maximize the child’s abilities.

Associated disabilities of CP

Approximately half of children with cerebral palsy have some degree of developmental delay and other disabilities. Epilepsy or seizure disorder is also among the problems associated with CP. Other than epilepsy, learning problems, poor attention span, hyperactivity, hearing or visual loss and emotional problems may also be seen. I believe that many of these emotional problems may be because of frustration in the inability to communicate his or her needs or wants.

Therapeutic management of CP

Cerebral palsy often is not diagnosed before the child is 2 years old. A multidisciplinary health care team approach is necessary to meet the many needs of the child with CP. This team includes the child and family, a pediatrician, neurologist, orthopedic surgeon, nurse, speech and hearing therapist, social worker, occupational therapist, physical therapist and educators.

All of these health care specialists work together with their treatments, therapies and medications to maximize the child’s quality of life and comfort. Of the many therapies a child with CP will receive, a communication device is an essential part of the plan of care. This device will not only be used in school, but will be part of the child’s daily life. He will not only learn how to communicate but can also play games for entertainment too. He will absolutely love this!

Speech and communication

An important part of recognizing CP in a child is paying attention to developmental milestones. Delay in reaching the milestones is one of the key indicators of cerebral palsy. School and community nurses are in the best position to work with families and children with CP. Many of these children will need both learning and physical adaptations as they enter school.

For the most part, children with CP are educated in the regular school program with assistive devices, such as the communication boards or computers. The communication board is a tool that the child will use for speech and communication.

The Amazon Fire Tablet for kids is another great option that you can use for your child. I invite you to check out my post. Click here for the Amazon Fire Tablet to read more.

GoTalk 9-Plus with Overlay Software CD

The GoTalk 9-Plus with Overlay Software CD is a communication board that is very easy to use with high sound quality and is lightweight yet very durable. This device is referred to as an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) aid and is used by many who have speech and language challenges forming longer, more complete thoughts.

This communication tool has a measurement of 9” x 12” x 1-1/8” and requires 2 “AA” batteries which are included.

It has a 45 message capacity which has 9 keys times 5 recording levels. This also has 3 “core” messages that remain constant on all levels.

Ideal for beginner users

The GoTalk 9-Plus with Overlay Software CD is a communication device that a child’s therapist and teachers will be using as a speech and communication aid for the child with CP. They will also be working with parents to show them how it is used and to continue working with their children with it for consistency and reinforcement.

This device comes with overlay software CD which is used for custom templates to suit the needs of the child. You can learn more about it here and purchase if you desire.

My final thoughts and recommendations

If you have a child who has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, then I recommend you check out the GoTalk 9-Plus with Overlay Software CD communication board for your child. Through Amazon, it comes at a slightly lower price compared to other outlets. It is a middle-of-the-road communication device which means it is neither the cheapest nor is it the most expensive. It has many features and enough storage to handle all communication needs. I have placed another link below for your convenience.

Purchase your GoTalk 9-Plus here!

GoTalk 9-Plus with Overlay Software CD

Questions or comments?

Please leave me your questions or comments in the comment section below and I will get back to you in a timely manner.

Always looking for the best for our babies,

Evelyn

December 26, 2020March 16, 2021

Medela Breast Pump [Hospital Grade for Best Performance]

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Every expectant mother is faced with a question as she nears the time of her delivery. Do I breast or bottle-feed? Of course, I believe that most new moms-to-be have already decided that breast is best and so begin their search for breast pumps. There are several on the market to choose from, but few that do the job efficiently. As a registered nurse, I want to give a few pointers on this subject and introduce you to the #1 brand that doctors recommend for breast pumps. That brand is the Medela Breast Pump, a hospital grade pump with the best performance and efficiency.

The first feeding

The first feeding should take place within the first hour after birth if both mom and baby are stable. At this time, infants are alert and many begin to nurse at once. Others may nuzzle, lick or suck on and off at the breast which in turn will stimulate the production of milk. Feeding at this time also establishes early bonding.

Position of mother and infant

Both mother and infant should be positioned properly for optimal breastfeeding. An awkward position or pain may interfere with “let-down” – also known as milk ejection reflex. I will give you 3 positions that are best for breastfeeds.

1. Cradle hold. Position the baby with her head at the inside of your elbow and level with your nipple with your arm supporting the baby’s body. Use support pillows under your arm to prevent tiring.

2. Football hold. Support the baby’s head in your hand with the baby’s body resting on pillows alongside your hip.

This method allows you to see the position of your baby’s mouth on your breast, helps you control your baby’s head, and is especially helpful if you have heavy breasts.

3. Side-lying position. This position avoids pressure on any abdominal or perineal incisions and allows you to rest while breastfeeding. Lay on your side with your arm supporting the baby’s head or surrounding her head. Put a pillow behind your back and between your legs to provide comfort. Your upper hand and arm are used to position your infant on her side at nipple level and hold the breast. When the infant’s mouth opens, lean forward or draw the infant to you to insert the nipple into her mouth.

Latch-on techniques

There are techniques that you can use to help your infant “latch-on” to the breast. The infant should be awake and hungry. Talking and cuddling can help a sleepy baby awaken and also calm an upset infant. To elicit a latch-on, there are 2 methods recommended.

1. The palmar or “C” hand position. Hold your breast with your thumb on top and fingers against the chest wall and supporting the underside of the breast. Your fingers should be behind the areola and your thumb should not press on the breast enough to make the nipple tip upward or your infant will suck improperly and your nipple may become sore.

2. The scissors hold or “V” position. Use your forefinger and middle finger to support the breast. You must be careful to place your fingers well back on the breast so that your fingers do not slip down the wet areola and interfere with the placement of your infant’s mouth. Remember to support your breast in place if its weight makes it difficult for your infant to hold it in her mouth for the first few weeks.

Eliciting a latch-on

After positioning your baby to face the breast, hold your breast so that the nipple brushes against the center of your baby’s lower lip. A hungry infant usually opens her mouth as soon as anything comes near it, but some need up to 1 minute of stroking the area around the mouth. The breast should not be inserted until your baby’s mouth is opened wide or the baby will compress the end of the nipple causing pain and trauma and little milk flow.

The positioning of your infant’s mouth is critical to preventing painful, sore nipples with poor milk production. As much of the areola as possible should be in your infant’s mouth to allow the nipple to be drawn toward the back of the mouth. Your infant’s lips should be about 1 to 1.5 inches from the nipple base.

One more important detail. While your baby is feeding, gently pull the lower lip down. The tongue should be under the breast and over the top of the lower gums. The lips should be flared outward. Be sure that the lower lip is not turned in, which may result in a friction burn on the lower nipple.

Expressing your milk

When milk expression is needed, a breast pump in my opinion is your best method. Although some mothers may want to try hand expression, it is not as effective. Hand expression or breast pump expression is very useful for the mom who wants to save her breast milk for another feeding or whose areola is so engorged (filled to excess) that the baby cannot grasp it.

For the mother who wants to express her milk for a prolonged period of time, I highly recommend the Medela Symphony Breast Pump which is a hospital-grade breast pump with a 2-phase expression technology. It is known for its comfortable pumping and is quiet running. The hospital-grade or large electric pumps are most efficient than hand or battery pumps and are indicated for maintaining milk supply for a long period of time.

This breast pump can be used on both breasts at the same time which will save you time and increase your milk production. Use of the breast pump should begin within the first 24 hours after birth if you cannot breastfeed your infant. You should pump your breasts about every 3 hours during the day and at least once at night when prolactin levels are elevated. Sessions last about 15 to 20 minutes. A total of 8 or more sessions in each 24 hours is best to maintain milk supply.

Prepare your breasts and let the milk flow

Massage and heat application before pumping helps initiate the flow of milk. Massage each quadrant of your breast during pumping, it increases the amount of milk obtained at each session. In addition, the reason why I highly recommend the Medela Symphony breast pump is that it is an electric pump with the ability to reduce pumping time through faster let-down and milk flow and it will remove as much milk from your breast as your infant does while feeding.

Medela Symphony Breast Pump

The features of this hospital grade breast pump are as follows:

This breast pump is known for its 2-phase expression technology which simply means that it mimics the way your baby nurses at your breast. This promotes increased milk production.
You can choose either single or double breast pumping.
It will allow you to switch from single to double pumping by applying or removing the second collection kit.
It will initiate and maintain your milk supply. In other words, by pumping your breasts regularly you will be able to keep producing milk for your baby.

Medela Symphony Breast Pump

Medela Symphony Breast Pump Kit, Double Pumping System

The Symphony Breast Pump Kit Double Pumping System is for the Medela Symphony Breast Pump. It has everything you need to get started. It comes with the tubes, membranes, valves, personal fit breast shields, connectors and breast milk bottles.

Please note that you can only use Medela products with this breast pump. Do not use other brands or off-brands for replacement items in this kit as they will cause damage to your breast pump unit.

Medela Symphony Breast Pump Kit, Double Pumping System

BPA free

All Medela breast pump parts and accessories that come into contact with your breast milk are BPA-free. This includes the 2 5-ounce bottles that come with this kit.

Remember breast is best

Breastfeeding your baby is always best and with the Medela Symphony Breast Pump and kit, you will be able to express and store your milk efficiently and with ease. Hospital-grade means that this breast pump will work as well as the ones hospitals use.

Get your Medela Symphony Breast Pump and kit here!

Medela Symphony Breast Pump

Medela Symphony Breast Pump Kit, Double Pumping System

Questions or comments?

Please feel free to leave me your questions or comments in the comment section below and I will respond to you promptly.

Always yours in researching the best for our babes,

Evelyn

December 25, 2020March 16, 2021

A Baby Gate and Babyproofing Your Home

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When your baby starts to pose in a crawling position and begins to rock back and forth on his hands and knees, it is time to baby-proof your home. There are many things you can do to make your home safe for your baby and I want to share with you how I have baby-proofed my home. For starters, one of the first things I purchased was a baby gate. I will also make some recommendations on other items that are very important when it comes to keeping your baby safe.

Cardinal Gates Stairway Angle Baby Gate

How and where do I start?

One of the very best ways to check your home for “baby safety” is to get on your hands and knees in one room at a time. Start with the kitchen and then work your way through the rest of the house.

First, cabinet locks are a must. You can either get the ones that you install or you can buy the locks that slip over the cabinet knobs and fasten. A toddler will not know how to unfasten these so don’t worry. Also secure the drawers especially if you keep knives in the kitchen drawers.