Tips & Tricks: NICU

For my Child Development class this semester we had to find information on a topic of our choice. As I look toward having Baby D I am concerned about spending time in NICU. Last time I did not handle it very well at all, mostly because I was not prepared. So, here are some tips I want to share with all of you. I hope none of you ever need to use them! At the bottom are some tips for those of you who have friends with children in NICU. I hope these are helpful!

A.

P.S. If you do know someone who has a baby in NICU or you have a baby in NICU make sure you check our our preemie blankets. They are sized to fit in your baby's NICU crib and I will personalize them with your baby's name if you ask. New colors are now in stock or if I don't have what you want I can get it, these blankets are priority and I try to ship them within 2 days.

Tips for Surviving NICU

• When your baby is in NICU:
  • Take pictures and video for family who can not visit.
  • Get to know the NICU staff.
    • The same nurses are usually assigned to your baby so get to know them. They are willing and wanting to help you in any way they can.
    • Talk to the Doctors. They are there to answer your questions.
  • Ask questions! The more you know about the care of your baby now the better prepared you will be to take them home.
  • Visit at least once a day.
    • Even when you are feeling at your worst it will help not hinder.
    • Try to create privacy for you and your baby.
    • Do as much for your baby during visits as you can.
    • Try to schedule your visits during feeding and bathing time if possible.
    • Hold your baby whenever possible. It is good for both of you.
  • Take care of yourself.
    • Act as if you have a new baby at home and let those around you provide meals, support and babysitters.
    • Watch for signs of PPD as it is more common in NICU moms.
    • Make sure you eat so you can care for your baby.
    • Find a support group if possible. Even if it is just one other NICU mom they can provide the most help and support because they really understand.
  • Celebrate when your baby comes home!
• If someone you know has a baby in NICU:
  • Do not compare their needs to a full term baby.
    • And do not compare experiences with other hospitalizations.
  • Do not judge the parents reactions.
  • Do not say call me. Find something to help with and do it.
    • Help right then if parents ask, that means they needed it a long time ago.
  • Do not initiate conversations about the what ifs.
    • Do not ask when the baby is coming home.
  • Support NICU moms who are pumping for their babies. This is much harder to maintain then actual breastfeeding.
  • Babysit older children free of charge so mom can visit her baby or nap.
  • Listen carefully when hearing about the babys progress so you can refer back in future conversations.
  • Offer encouragement.
  • Offer a hug.
  • Be aware of older siblings feelings. Know that they are suffering too.