The vernix caseosa is produced by fetal sebaceous glands in the third trimester of pregnancy. It protects the baby’s skin from bacterial infections, trauma, and water loss. Rubbing it in rather than removing it allows the baby to get the full protection of the vernix. It is lipid rich, so using more soap would help to dissolve it; however, the nurse should encourage the mom to leave the vernix in order to protect the infant’s skin. Although it is true that the vernix has free fatty acids that lower the pH of the skin, making it more acidic and less hospitable to bacteria, this is not the most helpful comment from the nurse. There is nothing in the question to suggest the mother is in excess pain, and bathing is an important bonding moment between mother and baby.