The NICU. The noise is disruptive and the way the team talks sounds like they are from another planet. They use terms like PDA, IVH, NEC, sepsis which are intimidating. There is a dozen or more people that you have met and feel obligated to remember their names and roles. You have so many questions. How long will we be here? How is that blue light supposed to help with their jaundice? When are feeding times again? They give caffeine to babies?? You are in a different world feeling on edge nervous and useless. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
Here are the five things that you can do to support your baby in the NICU
1. Be present for rounds. Many NICUs have daily rounds where the team discusses your baby’s progress, changes and plans for managing care and parents are encouraged to attend as part of the team. Your insights about your baby are valuable
2. Get involved in your baby’s care as soon as possible. Changing a diaper, wiping your baby’s mouth and eyes, taking the temperature. These actions may seem insignificant, but it will help you become more comfortable in caring for you baby not to mention ease stress for you both.
3. Ask questions. Things can change very quickly in s short period of time, so it is important to ask questions. The best time is usually during rounds, but if you can’t make it, your nurse would be the best person to ask for clarification. Please remember that no question is a stupid one.
4. Hold your baby - often. This simple act of love probably will have the most lasting impacts on your baby while they are in the NICU. Hand hugs, skin to skin, kangaroo care. These are all actions have amazing benefits to your baby and help soothe any anxiety that you may have. Studies have shown that skin to skin contact supports brain development and weight gain and calm their nervous systems. So, when you have the chance, make skin to skin contact part of your daily routine.
5. Take care of yourself. Some hospitals have the space to have parents stay in the NICU around the clock which can be a blessing or a curse. You want to stay as long as possible so that you don’t miss anything, and the team understands that, but balance is key. When you can, take time to rejuvenate and refresh yourself, away from the chaos and the alarms of the NICU. Go shopping, sleep in your own bed, go for a nice dinner. The important thing is that you take time to look after yourself. You can't give a hundred percent of yourself if you are only at twenty five percent.
Following these suggestions will help relieve you of some anxiety and support you in supporting your baby.
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