Let’s Clear the Air!
Nasal suctioning can be a bit intimidating. We are right there with you! Let’s discuss why we need to suction, what you need, and how to stay calm while doing it!
What should you look for?
- If your baby is congested or has a common illness.
- Your baby’s nose seems stuffy or like it’s hard for them to breathe.
- Your baby is making grunting noises.
- Toddler has not yet mastered blowing their nose.
What do you need?
- Nasal saline (Non-medicated)
-
Bulb syringe (The best ones are the ones they give you at the hospital.)
- We also love the NozeBot Baby Nasal Aspirator, which is a battery-powered suction device designed to clear nasal congestion in babies and children. (It’s FSA/HSA-eligible and Moms on Call families save $15 with code MOCNOZEBOT!)
- Burp cloth
- Baby wipes
- Have your paci handy.
How will I do this?
- Remember, we are using non-medicated nasal saline, so if it gets anywhere else, it will NOT hurt your baby!
- You’ve got this! Stay confident!
- Make sure to have a tight grip on Baby so their head does not wiggle from side to side.
- You may want assistance to help hold Baby’s arms. If you are without a helper, use the MOC Swaddle Blanket.
- Baby CAN cry, and it WILL be okay! You are doing this to ease their breathing.
- Only suction up to 3-4 times a day. The drops alone can be done up to 6 times a day.
- When doing this with older babies or toddlers, explain the process so they can be calm just like you!
- We are exuberating confidence and “calm face.” Baby will follow our cues!
We hope this clears things up, especially that cute little nose! Check out our video with Jennifer as she walks you through nasal suctioning the way a pediatric nurse would do it!
For more tips to survive cold and flu season, check out Baby’s First Cold: A Parent’s Survival Guide, written by Dr. Steven Goudy, Pediatric ENT.
Like this video? Then you’ll love Moms on Call’s Online Video Courses! Our Online Video Courses use bite-sized, value-packed videos broken down by age and development to cover everything you need to know to feed, sleep, laugh, and love birth through toddlerhood. These Online Video Courses complement Moms on Call’s books, signature swaddle blankets, apps, and e-books.
