Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator
Unit: Unit 1.3: Support physical care routines for children
Learning outcome: Understand hygienic practice in preparing formula feeds
Assessment criteria: Explain how poor hygiene may affect the health of babies in relation to: preparing formula feeds, sterilisation
The previous section explored good hygienic practices when preparing formula feeds and sterilising bottles. In this section, we will discuss how poor hygienic practices in relation to these tasks may affect the health of babies.
Formula feeds provide babies with all the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. However, if good hygiene is not maintained during the preparation of formula feeds, there is a risk of contamination with bacteria. This can cause food poisoning or other illnesses in babies. Sterilising bottles is important to kill any bacteria that may be present on the surface.
Poor hygiene in relation to preparing formula feeds and sterilising bottles can also have a negative impact on the baby’s growth and development. It may lead to malnutrition or dehydration, which can have negative consequences on a baby’s health. It is therefore essential to maintain good hygiene when preparing formula feeds and sterilising bottles.