What are Personal Care Recommendations for a Pavlik Harness?
Do not remove the harness unless instructed to do so by your child's doctor. You will have to sponge bathe your baby. Take special care to check all skin folds, especially behind the knees and in the diaper area. Keep these areas clean and dry. You should dress your baby in loose clothing. Be sure that the clothing or blankets do not bring your baby's knees together. Do not swaddle your baby in the traditional manner. The nurse can show you how to put a T-shirt on under the harness without loosening the straps. Putting the shirt on takes a little time, but it will help keep your baby's skin from becoming red and sore.
Booties or socks can be put on your baby's feet by loosening the Velcro bands of the foot stirrups one foot at a time. Place the sock on the foot, replace the foot in the stirrup and fasten the Velcro bands. Moleskin may be provided to pad the straps to minimize skin irritation.
When diapering, be sure that the diaper is fastened under the straps. If the harness straps become soiled, use a gentle soap on a washcloth and rub the dirty spot. The strap will air dry.
After your baby has been fed, the strap across the chest can appear to be tight. Only loosen the Velcro chest band while your baby's stomach is full. Snug up the Velcro strap after your baby is more comfortable. You should be able to place two fingers easily between the chest and the chest strap.
