Newborn Care Terms

Ankyloglossia (Tongue-Tie)

A condition limiting tongue movement due to a tight frenulum

Frenulum

Tissue under the tongue or upper lip that may restrict movement if too tight.

Jaundice

Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar levels in the newborn.

Latching

The baby’s attachment to the breast for feeding.

Rooting Reflex

Infant’s instinctive search for the nipple.

Apgar Score

A quick evaluation of a newborn's physical condition after birth.

Colostrum

The first, nutrient-rich milk produced after birth.

Neonatal Jaundice

Yellowing of a newborn’s skin due to high bilirubin levels. Common in newborns as their livers are still developing

Phototherapy

Light treatment for jaundice.

Rooming-In

Practice of keeping the baby in the same room as the parent in the hospital.

Skin to Skin Contact

Placing the baby directly on the parent's chest after birth.

Vernix Caseosa

White, waxy substance covering newborn skin at birth.

Newborn Rash

Common skin irritation in newborns that usually resolves on
its own

Cluster Feeding

Frequent feedings by a newborn over a short period

Pathological Jaundice

Occurs within the first 24 hours or is more severe and prolonged (often related to a Coombs Positive Result)

Physiological Jaundice

Common, peaks around days 3-5

Hyperbilirubinemia

Another term for Jaundice

Bilirubin

A yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells; processed by the liver, and excreted.

Coombs Test

A test that detects antibodies in baby’s blood that could lead to red blood cell destruction (hemolysis)

Hemolysis

The destruction of red blood cells

Direct Coombs Positive (DAT Positive)

Indicates the presence of maternal antibodies bound to the baby’s red blood cells.

Coombs Side Effects

Higher risk of jaundice due to increased breakdown of red blood cells

Tummy Time

Placing the baby on their tummy while awake to strengthen their muscles