Common Concerns & Safety

what is infant colic?

inconsolable crying lasting 3 or more hours daily without an identified physical cause

what is the usual course of infant colic?

may begin around 2 weeks, usually resolves by 3 months

when does normal infant crying usually peak?

around 6 weeks, decreasing by about 12 weeks

what should caregivers check first when an infant cries persistently?

whether basic needs are met, including feeding, diapering, and comfort

what approaches may soothe an infant with colic?

reduce stimulation, hold the infant, use white noise or a pacifier

how should caregivers try different soothing methods for colic?

one at a time, avoiding excessive stimulation

what support helps caregivers cope with infant colic?

reassurance that colic is temporary, opportunities for rest, help with caregiving

what feeding factors can increase infant spit-up?

overfeeding and inadequate burping

what feeding changes may reduce infant spit-up?

smaller, more frequent feedings and burping 2–3 times per feeding

how should an awake infant be held after feeding to reduce spit-up?

upright for about 30 minutes

what activities should be avoided immediately after feeding an infant who spits up?

bouncing, vigorous activity, positioning that compresses the stomach

what findings are reassuring in an infant who spits up?

appropriate weight gain and at least 6 wet diapers daily

what vomiting patterns in an infant should be reported to the provider?

forceful vomiting, choking with vomiting, vomiting one third or more of most feedings

what purpose do thumb sucking and pacifier use serve in infancy?

nonnutritive sucking provides comfort and self-soothing

what concerns are associated with infant pacifier use?

contamination and increased risk of ear infections

when should caregivers avoid trying to stop an infant’s sucking habit?

during stressful periods or while mastering a new skill

where should an infant’s soft security toy or blanket be kept during sleep?

outside the crib to prevent suffocation

what symptoms commonly accompany teething?

drooling, chewing, irritability, reduced appetite, disrupted sleep

what symptoms should not be dismissed as teething?

fever, vomiting, diarrhea

what nonmedication measure can relieve teething discomfort?

a cold teething ring to soothe the gums