During a newborn bath, which action demonstrates proper technique?

• A. Washes the diaper area first
• B. Washes the infant's chest first
• C. Uncovers only the body part being washed
• D. Uses a cotton-tipped swab to carefully clean inside the infant's nose

Answer: (C)

Keeping the baby warm while preserving modesty is essential during a newborn bath. The best technique is to uncover only the body part you are washing at that moment. This minimizes heat loss and helps the infant stay comfortable and calm. You wash that area, then cover it before exposing the next part, continuing this pattern so most of the body remains covered most of the time. Routine hygiene steps also place the diaper area last to prevent bringing stool or urine onto already cleaned skin and to help maintain warmth. Remember, never insert objects into the nose; cleaning inside the nasal passages with a cotton-tipped swab can cause injury, so only external surfaces are wiped with a damp cloth if needed.