Newborn Care

Newborn Care services offered in Aiken, Hardeeville and Walterboro, SC and Augusta, GA

Newborn care plays a crucial role in ensuring their health, well-being, and optimal development during the early life stages. At Valcourt Pediatric Associates in Aiken, Hardeeville, and Walterboro, South Carolina, and Augusta, Georgia, board-certified pediatrician Yvrose Valcourt, MD, and pediatric nurse practitioner Whitney Lutz, NP, provide expert care for infants and families. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today to learn more. The practice also offers telehealth visits.

Newborn Care Q&A

What is newborn care?

Newborn care refers to the comprehensive care provided to infants in the first few weeks of life. It involves ensuring your baby’s health, well-being, and development from day one.

The pediatric specialists at Valcourt Pediatric Associates strive to support your baby's healthy growth and provide the knowledge and resources you need to navigate the joys and challenges of early parenthood.

What screenings and tests can newborn care include?

Each newborn screening begins with a thorough physical exam. Your pediatric specialist checks your baby’s heart and respiration rates before examining their head circumference, length, and weight. They also assess your newborn’s skin, eyes, abdomen, and other body parts. Finally, the provider tests your infant’s reflexes and performs a vision and hearing screening.

Other screenings and blood tests typically completed during a newborn’s early days include:

Congenital hypothyroidism
Phenylketonuria (PKU)
Sickle cell disease
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Cystic fibrosis
Medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MCAD)
Biotinidase deficiency
Maple syrup urine disease
Homocystinuria
Bilirubin level measurement

Depending on family health history, some infants may also benefit from congenital heart defect screening or metabolic and genetic testing.

What should I know about newborn care at home?

Your pediatrician or pediatric specialist can help you prepare for bringing your baby home. They partner with you to provide comprehensive guidance and support on essential aspects of newborn care at home. They can educate you on:

Diapering
Bathing
Clothing
Feeding
Following sleep routines
Identifying warning signs of health concerns
Creating a safe and healthy environment
Bonding

Your pediatric team can help ensure you feel confident and prepared to welcome the new addition to your family.

How often does my baby need newborn care?

The U.S. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion recommends that babies see their pediatrician at least six times for well-visits before their first birthday. These regular visits ensure ongoing monitoring of your baby's growth, development, and overall health during your child’s first months of life.

Valcourt Pediatric Associates can provide a more personalized visit schedule for your infant based on their specific needs and circumstances.

Call Valcourt Pediatric Associates or schedule a newborn care appointment online to receive compassionate, high-quality care for your family.