Neonatal Infection in Midwifery

Neonatal Infections

“…It is common belief that the risk of infection is greater for infants born in hospital than for those delivered at home, but this view needs modification. Crosse and Mackintosh (1953) studied a series of infants, some of whom were born in hospital and others in their own homes, and they showed that there was a greater preponderance of skin sepsis in hospital cases, but that respiratory infections (spread from visiting neighbours, friends and relatives) were more common in domiciliary practice. Although the potential danger of hospital cross infection is always present, respiratory infections equally endanger the lives of infants.…”

Care of the Newborn

“…In the home, respiratory infections are the chief danger, and precautions should be taken to prevent undue exposure of the baby to relatives and friends. In hospital practice, the danger of contact infection is greater than in the home (Crosse and Mackintosh, 1953 Circumcision Gairdner (I954), has shown that a non-retractile prepuce is normal in the infant. There are probably only three indications for circumcision in the new-born: (I) inability to pass urine because of phimosis, (2) Jewish ritual circumcision and (3) desire of parents.…”