Maybe many parents are afraid to cut their baby's nails, especially newborns. Even so, the baby's nails must still be cut, because if they are too long, the nails can injure the skin that is accidentally scratched.
Parents need to cut baby's nails, because he can't control his movements well. Baby's nails need to be kept short to prevent them from scratching and injuring themselves.
Steps to Cut Baby Nails
Trimming baby's nails should be done with care. If you miss or cut your little one's nails too deep, you can injure his fingertips.
Here are tips for trimming baby's nails safely:
1. Do it while the baby sleeps or after he bathes
Given the baby's uncontrolled movements, trim his nails while he is fast asleep. You can also cut your little one's nails after he's finished bathing, because in this condition, his nails are softer.
If you are clipping your little one's nails when he wakes up, ask someone to hold him and keep him from moving too much while the nails are being trimmed.
2. Use a nail file or special nail clippers
If your little one is a few weeks old, you are advised to cut their nails using a nail file, because baby nails at this age are still very soft. If you use nail clippers, it is feared that your little one's fingers could be injured, especially if you are not used to doing it.
In addition, Mother can also use special baby nail clippers. This type of scissors has a blunt tip, not sharp like ordinary nail clippers.
3. Cut baby's nails in a comfortable position
Make sure the mother is in a comfortable position to reach her hands, for example by placing the little one on her lap. Also make sure the room where the little one's nails cut has sufficient lighting, so that you can see the boundaries between the nails and the skin clearly.
4. Use the right technique
Use the correct technique to trim baby's nails. Hold the finger of the little one that you want to cut. Press the skin on your little one's fingertips to make it easier for you to cut his nails.
If there's still a bit of nail left, use a nail file to smooth it down along the edges of the nail. As for the toenails, cut them straight.
5. Don't panic when cutting nails
If you accidentally injure your little one's fingertips, you don't need to panic. Immediately clean the wound with cold water, then wrap it with a tissue, and apply a little pressure to the wound. Within minutes, the bleeding will stop.
Avoid putting plaster on the wound on the baby's finger, because babies often put their fingers in their mouths. If the bandage comes off and is swallowed, the baby may choke.
Mothers can do some of the tips above to cut baby's nails safely. Given that baby nails grow quickly, it is advisable to trim their nails at least once a week. If you still don't dare to cut your little one's nails, ask a baby nurse or pediatrician to do it.
