5.3.14
Diapering
Primary Caregivers are responsible for diapering each of their children. If the Primary Caregiver is unavailable, then a qualified, assigned staff person diapers the child.
Follow the diapering and ointment procedures in each of the diapering areas. If you need additional information or training, please contact the Health or Child Development Department.
Diapers should be checked for wetness and feces at least hourly, visually inspected at least every two hours, and whenever the child indicates discomfort or exhibits behavior that suggests a soiled or wet diaper. Diapers should be changed when they are found to be wet or soiled.
Follow the steps listed in Diapering Procedures English | Spanish This document should be posted near the changing table.
Specifics:
- EHS: After diapering a child, enter the details into the Bathroom section of the child’s Daily Log
- HS: After diapering a child, enter the details into the child’s Head Start Diapering Log
Diaper Log (HS only)
Purpose: To document diaper condition, time changed and staff member who changed the diaper of a child in the Head Start program. The Child Development staff member who changed the diaper should make the entry into the Diaper Log.
After changing a diaper, record the date, time, your initials and the condition of the diaper. For additional instructions, refer to the bottom of the Diaper Log form.
Diaper Logs must be kept at the center for one year.
Note: EHS must document diaper changes on the Daily Log. This is an additional tool for use in EHS classrooms.
Ointment Policy
The following procedures related to diapering must be followed in order to protect the health and safety of children served in centers:
- Staff will only apply diaper cream or ointment to children while at center, as needed, with parent permission.
- Parents who wish to authorize the application of diaper cream or ointment must complete the Diaper Ointment Permission form prior to any ointment being applied to their child.
- Baby powder will not be used as it can cause breathing problems in children.
- Completed permission forms should be kept in the child’s file.
Providing Diapers
Shasta Head Start must provide sufficient materials to meet the needs and facilitate the participation of children and adults. This includes providing diapers/pull-ups.
- Shasta Head Start provides diapers/pull-ups for all children who need them during their attendance in the Head Start program.
- Diapers worn by children shall be able to contain urine and stool and minimize fecal contamination of the children, caregivers, environmental surfaces and objects in the child care setting.
- Only disposable diapers with absorbent material may be used unless the child has a medical reason that does not permit the use of disposable diapers (such as allergic reactions).
- If parents request the use of cloth diapers the diaper shall have an absorbent inner lining completely contained within an outer covering made of waterproof material that prevents the escape of feces and urine. The outer covering and inner lining shall be changed together at the same time as a unit and shall not be reused. No rinsing or dumping of the contents of the diaper shall be performed at the child care center. Put the soiled cloth diaper (without emptying or rinsing) in a plastic bag in a plastic lined- foot operated diaper can or trash can to give to the parents at the end of the day.
- Upon enrollment, parents will be asked, through the Infant Toddler Needs and Services Plan and/or the HDNA, about their child’s diapering routine.
- If parents choose to provide diapers for their child, then Head Start will consider it a donation to the program. However, no parent is required to provide diapers as part of their Head Start activities.
References
- Caring for our Children – Chapter 3: Health Promotion and Protection – Diapering and Changing Soiled Clothing
- California Childcare Health Program
- Environmental Rating Scales Institute (ERSI) Website – Diapering and Handwashing Procedures
- Diaper and Ointment Policy
- Diaper Ointment Permission Form – English | Spanish
- Diapering Procedures – English | Spanish
- Head Start Diaper Log
- Guidelines for Toilet Learning – Refer to the SOP Bathroom Procedures