NICU stands for Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Studies have found that 10-15% of all babies born in the US require extra care. Children born with health problems like low birth weight, birth defects or breathing troubles are admitted in NICU within 24 hours of birth. Round the clock care is offered by a team of highly qualified neonatologists. The infant can stay inside for a few hours, weeks or months depending on their health condition.
High-end nursing care is available to ease physical discomfort and boost the chances of living. Health and wellness programs are also offered to the mother to reduce the stress. Below are a few other benefits of putting your baby in a special care nursery.
1. Constant Medical Care
The best NICUs have feeding tubes, IVs, nasal cannula, lines, temperature probe, blood pressure cuffs and phototherapy system. These usually look quite alarming but helps your newborn recover safely and healthily. Doctors, nurses and caregivers do not leave your baby’s side at any time. Heart rate, pulse oxygen, breathing and temperature are continuously checked to ensure the little one is responding well. You can hold your baby’s hand or stroke their heads at the time of visit.
2. Bonding With the Baby
NICU is a great place for a mother-baby bond. The inside is absolutely peaceful. You can experience a fulfilling breastfeeding session. Lactation specialists are often present to teach you a few feeding techniques and help the baby latch properly. You can also get help with pumping and maintaining milk supply. This can ensure the child is getting a sufficient amount of colostrum and white milk. It will help the baby receive all the nutrients properly, grow and develop well and recover soon.
3. Maternal Recovery
The mother gets sufficient time to recover from the delivery process. NICU takes care of your baby so dedicate this period to yourself. Spend the time at home with your other child, if any. Eat well, sleep and rest sufficiently and try to feel energetic. Heal properly before you can take on your motherhood journey.
4. Numerous Treatments Available
Babies born with a wide range of diseases are admitted to the NICU. These include anaemia, apnoea, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, pneumonia, respiratory distress syndrome, heart valve abnormalities, septal defects, tetralogy of fallot, hypoglycaemia and intrauterine growth restrictions. Most of them are diagnosed shortly after birth. This is when the child will be transferred to the intensive care unit for specialized baby healthcare.
5. Secured Sanctuary
One of the specialities of the NICU is that it is far from loud noise or bright lights. The sound level of the entire unit is lowered. Earmuffs are also provided for shock management in neonates. The lights are dimly illuminated instead of harsh rays. This is quite helpful for a premature new born since they are extremely sensitive. Regulated light and sound can help rest peacefully inside the incubator along with controlled temperature. It eases the transition from the womb to the outside world and helps to cope easily. The top children’s hospital ensures the child receives the best treatment. The level III NICU comes with state-of-the-art monitoring and fully equipped incubators. Baby warmers, blood gas analysers and ventilators are present for critical infants.