How should the umbilical cord stump be cared for?

• A. Keep dry and clean; sponge baths only until the stump falls off; avoid immersing in bath water
• B. Soak stump in water daily
• C. Apply alcohol to stump at every change
• D. Cover stump with tight bandage

Answer: (A)

Keeping the umbilical cord stump clean and dry supports natural drying and detachment. The stump typically dries and falls off within about a couple of weeks, so using sponge baths and avoiding immersion in bathwater helps prevent moisture that can slow healing or lead to infection. Clean with plain water as needed and pat dry, then keep the diaper folded below the stump to prevent moisture exposure. Do not use alcohol or other substances on the stump, and avoid covering it with a tight bandage, since moisture and irritation can delay detachment and raise infection risk. Watch for signs of infection (redness, foul odor, discharge, fever) and call a clinician if they occur.