How do you prevent flat spots on the back of a baby's head?

A. This is not a primary consideration before bathing a newborn. The timing of the last feeding is more relevant to assessing the risk of hypoglycemia rather than determining readiness for a bath.

B. This temperature is slightly below the recommended range for newborns (36.5°C to 37.5°C). Bathing should be delayed until the newborn's temperature is stable.

C. While care of the umbilical cord is important, it does not determine the timing of the first bath. The cord can be kept dry even if the baby is bathed.

D. Ensuring that the newborn has maintained a stable body temperature for at least 2 hours is crucial before giving the first bath. Bathing can cause a drop in body temperature, so it's essential that the newborn's thermoregulation is stable to avoid hypothermia.

A. Back to sleep: While placing babies on their backs to sleep is essential for reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), it does not prevent flat spots. Instead, tummy time while the baby is awake helps balance the time spent on their back.

B. Take the baby for walks: Taking a baby for walks is beneficial for overall development and stimulation but does not directly prevent flat spots on the head.

C. Keep them awake most of the day: This is not a safe or recommended practice. Babies need sufficient sleep for proper growth and development.

D. Tummy time helps prevent flat spots by reducing the amount of time the baby spends lying on their back. It also strengthens neck, shoulder, and arm muscles, encouraging the baby to move their head more freely and develop motor skills.