Umbilical cord care

• Umbilical cord care refers to keeping the cord stump clean and dry until it falls off naturally within 10 to 14 days after birth.
• Umbilical cord care prevents infection or bleeding from the cord stump or umbilicus. Infection can cause omphalitis (inflammation of umbilical tissues), sepsis (bloodstream infection) or tetanus (a serious bacterial disease).
• Umbilical cord care includes clamping and cutting the cord with sterile instruments within 1 to 3 minutes after birth; applying antiseptic such as chlorhexidine solution or alcohol swab once daily until it falls off; keeping it above diaper level; changing diapers frequently; avoiding tub baths until it falls off; checking for signs of infection such as moistness, redness, purulent drainage or foul odor; seeking medical attention if signs are present.