Preemie Home Care Tips

Preemie births have gradually increased over the past five years. With advances in medicine though, babies born at 28 weeks gestation and weighing at least two pounds, three ounces have a great chance of survival and little risk of injury and complications. There are some steps new parents must take though when considering bringing home their tiny bundle of joy!

First, get prepared. Your pediatrician will tell you how to care for your baby at home. Be sure to get information on how to know if your baby is eating properly, and if your baby is getting enough sleep and gaining enough weight. You will also need to know how to give medications and use any specialized equipment your baby may need like sleep apnea monitors or oxygen tanks.

Make sure your car seat is properly installed. Get a car seat that is approved for infants weighing under five pounds. Your hospital may require you to bring in your car seat to be tested. Your baby will be placed in the car seat and hooked up to a cardiopulmonary monitor that will evaluate his breathing and heart activity. If your baby has breathing problems, your pediatrician may recommend a car bed which lets your baby lie down in the car. Because of preemie breathing problems, it is recommended to only allow your baby to be in a car seat for an hour at a time.

Breastfeeding is recommended for preemies as well as full term babies. This may be difficult but the payoff is effective in promoting your baby’s health and development. Even if your baby is unable to nurse at the beginning, you can still try to express your milk right after delivery and give it to baby when he’s ready, by tube or by bottle. Try to pump at least six to eight times a day to encourage milk production.

Don’t compare your baby to the national average. Ignore standard baby-development charts. Your doctor will let you know what your baby’s gestational age is and keep you abreast of where your infant falls developmentally.

Celebrate your baby. Take lots of pictures at the hospital and at home. Keep a baby book, journal, or scrapbook to record the first rollover, tooth, word, and haircut. When you feel like it, have visitors come over to visit but make sure they wash their hands before touching your baby.