Dr. Benjamin Ho: Part 3: Essential Medical Baby Supplies & Self Care

Dr. Benjamin Ho, Medical Director of Texas Children’s Pediatrics Concierge Medicine program

What All New Parents Should Know

Expert advice for new parents from Dr. Benjamin Ho, Medical Director of Texas Children’s Pediatrics Concierge Medicine program. Part 3 of 3-part article series. Part 3: Essential Medical Baby Supplies & Taking Care of Yourself

Essential Medical Baby Supplies

As an expectant, first-time parent, I remember being bombarded by constant advertisements for all sorts of baby medical supplies.  And even as a pediatrician, it was sometimes hard to tell which were necessary and which were extravagant.  From fancy baby monitors to specialized baby food processors, everything seemed essential.  However, I want to give you a list of essential medical supplies that all babies should have.

Thermometer

Without a doubt, this is one of the most important things you will ever need and will always use.  As we all know, babies and kids get sick a lot and it’s necessary to check their temperature.  A temperature greater than 100.4 is considered a fever and this is an automatic call to your pediatrician.  The most accurate way to measure this is with a rectal thermometer.  You may also use other types of thermometers, but you should always confirm the temperature with a rectal thermometer.

Medicines

The three indispensable medicines that I always recommend that every parent should have are acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl).  Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are used to reduce pain and fever, although Ibuprofen is not indicated for babies under 6 months.  Diphenhydramine is used to treat allergies and hives and is also usually used for babies over 6 months.  If you feel the need to use these medicines, please consult with your physician first.

Nasal Aspirator and Saline Drops

During your baby’s first few months of life, you will unequivocally need to suction their nose.  Since babies breathe mostly through their nose, it is necessary to alleviate their congestion, especially during times of illness.  There are many diverse types of nasal aspirators, like the Nose Frida and electronic devices, and you may have to try different ones to see which works best for your baby.

First Aid Kit

As everyone knows, your baby or toddler will inevitably get cuts and scrapes.  A basic first aid kit should contain bandages, gauze, tape, Aloe Vera, antibacterial and corticosteroid ointments, alcohol wipes, cotton pads and swabs, masks, and gloves. 

Gas

Another thing that all babies have in common is gas.  Because the gastrointestinal system is still immature, babies retain lots of gas and may be uncomfortable.  Techniques, such as burping, leg bicycling and massages, sometimes may not be enough to relieve the gas.  As a result, gas drops, like Little Tummys Gas Relief Drops and Mylicon, can help reduce the gas.

Diaper creams and Petroleum jelly

Because babies constantly use diapers, rashes are common.  The number and severity of the diaper rash often depends on the sensitivity of your baby’s skin.  There are many varied brands of diaper rash creams, and they are essential to treat the rash.  However, if the rash does not improve with over-the-counter creams, please consult your pediatrician.  Also, petroleum jelly is also a must-have for a newborn baby.  It can be used to relieve irritated, dry skin, treat diaper rashes and lubricate rectal thermometers.

Take Care of Yourself

Taking care of yourself may seem like the most cliché piece of advice to a new parent, but this is also, in my opinion, the most important.  While many people would consider being a new parent to be the most exciting and fulfilling time in their lives, it can also sometimes be a daunting challenge.  To best care for your baby, you will have to be emotionally, physically, and mentally prepared.  Taking care of yourself is not selfish.  Some parents feel guilty about this, but this is essential to raising a happy baby.  Caring for your baby will unquestionably dominate your time but it is important to carve out time for yourself and your partner.  Eating well, sleeping sufficiently, exercising adequately, and engaging in your favorite hobbies and activities are some key things that will rejuvenate your energy.  Do not be afraid to say “no” at times and most importantly, it is ok to ask for help.  The African proverb, “it takes a village to raise a child,” certainly rang true during this time in my life as I sought out help from family and friends.  And speaking about asking for help, some moms (and dads) may feel the baby blues and it is important to seek professional help.  Your OB/GYN doctor and pediatrician will have resources for this and do not feel afraid or ashamed to discuss this.  Having your first baby will only happen once in your life so it is important to take care of yourself so that you can enjoy it to the maximum. 

My final piece of advice for all new parents is to have an open mind.  This will be an incredible time in your life for personal growth and self-discovery.  But this can only happen if you are willing to learn.  During this period in my life, I always thought that I would be the one teaching and instilling my life lessons, values, and beliefs to my son, but I quickly discovered that I learned just as much from him as he did from me.  For example, as someone who is tidy, organized, and clean, I quickly realized that children are messy, disorganized, and dirty.  The ability to adapt to the latest changes, learn from mistakes, absorb different perspectives, and embrace chaos are integral to having a happy and stable life.  Your journey through parenthood will be like a rollercoaster ride so strap in, expect the unexpected and enjoy the ride!

Learn more about Dr. Benjamin Ho and Concierge Medicine at Texas Children’s Pediatrics.