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Premature Newborn Care: Not What I Expected
Premature Newborn Care: Not What I ExpectedFor parents of babies born early, there is suddenly so much to learn, and to feel. And all in unexpectedsurroundings. In the special care nursery, there are so many new faces to get to know and complicatedmedical terms and technology. No wonder most parents feel a wide range of emotions.“It’s hard to be a mom in the NICU, but the nurses and doctors make it a lot easier. They let you givethe baths, and the bottles and you can be here whenever you want to be here. So that really helps.”In the special care nursery, there are so many new faces to get to know and complicated medical terms andtechnology. No wonder most parents feel a wide range of emotions.“It’s scary, of course, it’s scary. It’s scary when you know they whisk her away. You’re not sure thereasons why. If she’s going to be okay. But I know I’m in good hands here, so I know she’s in goodhands.”For mothers, these intense feelings may follow major surgery and come at a time when hormones are shiftingrapidly. It is natural for parents to experience feelings of fear and powerlessness, but as you become morecomfortable with the NICU environment and interacting with your baby you will begin to feel more confident inyour role as parents.Remember to discuss your feelings with your baby’s NICU staff. They can suggest ways for you tocommunicate with the NICU team and participate in your baby’s care.This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.PRG10023B EN PrematureNewbornCareNotWhatIExpected.pdf© The Wellness NetworkPage 1 of 1
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Watch this video to learn the important role you play while your child is in the NICU
An introduction to life in the neonatal intensive care unit, or NICU. Learn how you and NICU staff work together to give your baby the very best care.
Watch this video to learn the strategies used to help your child feel comfortable in the NICU.
In the NICU, the staff takes care of your premature baby's medical needs. But your presence is just as important. Read on to learn more.
