Management of Crying and fussing in infants
Crying and fussing is quite normal in fi rst 3 mths. Crying is excessive if
it lasts for long periods when baby should be sleeping or playing (usually
6–9 pm). Organic causes which are uncommon should be considered.
Checklist of common causes
• hunger (usually underfeeding)
• wet or soiled nappy
• loneliness (crying ceases when picked up)
• infantile colic (usually 2–16 wks)
• individual temperament
• teething
Management
• Perform physical examination (include assessment of child’s
temperament).
• Give parental reassurance and education.
• Reassure that extra attention (not overstimulation) is okay.
• Provide soothing alternatives (e.g. use of dummy/pacifi er, extra
cuddling and carrying, gentle massage).
The fi ve S’s
1 Swaddling—firm clothes
2 Side or stomach—lie baby on side or stomach
3 Shush, i.e. ‘sshusshing’ as loud as the child
4 Swing—sway from side to side
5 Suckling—nipple, teat or pacifi er
Crying and fussing is quite normal in fi rst 3 mths. Crying is excessive if
it lasts for long periods when baby should be sleeping or playing (usually
6–9 pm). Organic causes which are uncommon should be considered.
Checklist of common causes
• hunger (usually underfeeding)
• wet or soiled nappy
• loneliness (crying ceases when picked up)
• infantile colic (usually 2–16 wks)
• individual temperament
• teething
Management
• Perform physical examination (include assessment of child’s
temperament).
• Give parental reassurance and education.
• Reassure that extra attention (not overstimulation) is okay.
• Provide soothing alternatives (e.g. use of dummy/pacifi er, extra
cuddling and carrying, gentle massage).
The fi ve S’s
1 Swaddling—firm clothes
2 Side or stomach—lie baby on side or stomach
3 Shush, i.e. ‘sshusshing’ as loud as the child
4 Swing—sway from side to side
5 Suckling—nipple, teat or pacifi er