It’s a new parents worst times, baby health problems have just shown up in their home. The first time you need to deal with a baby having a fever, vomiting, or just feeling miserable, you may feel like a failure. It’s not your fault, every infant gets sick sometime, you just need to be prepared. There are a few things you may want to have on hand in preparation for this challenging day.

At the hospital you will probably be given a pretty blue bulb called an aspirator. Make sure to hold onto this treasured item. If you happen to discard it, you can get another one from your local pharmacy. This wonderful little tool will aid you in clearing the mouth or nose when there is excess buildup. Don’t get too energetic with it. It is meant to be a gentle sucking.

While you’re at the pharmacy get a couple good digital thermometers. It is good to have one on hand for doing rectal temperatures, and an alternative to take the temperature under the arm. A fever is going to happen, and the first question when you call the Doctor will be “What is the baby’s temperature?”. This is one of the most important tools to have on hand in preparation for the inevitable baby health problems.

You’ll want to have the thermometer at home before your baby is even born. Those first few weeks your Doctor will want to know if there is any type of fever, and you need to be prepared. Most likely you’ll have no problems, but better safe than sorry. Any fever at 100.4 or above is the time to call your baby’s Doctor.

As your baby gets a little older, you’re going to want to have children’s acetaminophen on hand. This is most commonly used after your baby reaches 3 months old, but may be recommended by the Doctor at even early ages when a fever is involved. Don’t buy children’s ibuprofen until after your child has reached 6 months or older. Stay completely away from children’s aspirin. While it can be effective, it also can lead to Reye’s syndrome which could increase your baby health problems.

One of the most commonly reported baby health problems is constipation. If you are breastfeeding, make sure you keep in mind, it is not uncommon for a baby to go up to 3 days without a bowel movement. The most important factor in reducing constipation is making sure your baby is eating well, and staying hydrated. They should be getting enough fluids from their breastfeeding or bottles. Do not use any medications for constipation without talking to your Doctor, it could lead to serious issues.

Baby health problems are always challenging. You’ll quickly learn by making a quick phone call to your Doctor, and taking good common sense actions, your baby will recover very fast. Keep a close eye on your baby when they are ill, and try to relax. The last thing your baby needs is an upset parent. You’re prepared, you’re ready, and you’ll do great!