Nail care for newborns

Information:

Definition:
Caring for the fingernails and toenails of newborn infants.

Newborns have fingernails that are usually soft and flexible but that can cause injuries to the infant. Newborn infants do not yet have control of arm, hand, and finger movements and may inadvertently claw at their face. Nails that are ragged or extend beyond the tip of the finger can cause scratches to the face and possibly eyes.

Newborn infants should receive appropriate nail care. Clean the baby's hands and nails during regular bathing. Nails should be carefully trimmed with baby nail scissors, that have blunt rounded tips. (Do NOT use nail clippers--you may clip the tip of the baby's finger instead of the nail!). Use an emery board to keep the nails smooth to prevent injuries. Since baby's nails grow pretty quickly, you may have to cut them once a week.

Review Date: 1/23/2002
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial. (1/23/2002). Previous review: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director; RxRemedy. (2/9/2000).

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