Many new parents may feel overwhelmed with doubts on how to care for a premature baby at home after being discharged from the hospital. Here are some tips to help make the transition from hospital to home smoother for your little one.
Preemies, or premature babies, are infants born before completing 37 weeks of pregnancy. Those born before 35 weeks often require medical attention and are monitored in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) for weeks or even months, depending on their health and weight at birth. These babies need extra care and attention to ensure healthy development. While the NICU period can be daunting, it is an excellent time for parents to start being involved in their baby’s daily care routines. With guidance from the medical team, parents should get comfortable with feeding, holding, comforting, changing, and understanding their baby’s cues. Once discharged, consider these tips for caring for your premature baby at home.
How to care for a preterm baby at home?
Here are some tips to help you care for your newborn effectively:
1. Feed them properly
Premature babies may struggle with feeding due to underdeveloped coordination between sucking, swallowing, and breathing. They may not indicate hunger through crying or other actions due to delayed development, so parents need to monitor and feed them on schedule. Feed your baby every 2-3 hours as recommended by your doctor. Signs of proper feeding include good activity, regular urine output, and weight gain.
Also Read: What is the ideal nutrition for a very low birth weight baby?
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2. Regulate their temperature regularly
It is recommended for parents to have skin-to-skin contact with the baby to help regulate their body temperature. This method, known as kangaroo care, involves holding the baby close to your chest to provide the warmth they need. Additionally, ensure the baby is kept at a warm temperature with appropriate clothing, as preemies may struggle to maintain body temperature.
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3. Maintain proper hygiene
Due to weak immunity, preemies are more susceptible to infections. Therefore, it is essential to maintain proper hygiene in the house and while handling the baby. Sanitize your hands before touching or carrying the baby and after changing diapers for the first few months.
Also Read: A premature baby needs extra care. Here’s what you can do
4. Avoid visitors
Limit the baby’s exposure to the outside world for a few months, as they are sensitive to pollution and noise and at risk of infections. Restrict visitors to your home, especially school-age children and those with respiratory infections.
5. No smoking
Avoid smoking around a premature baby, as it can harm their developing lungs.
6. Follow safe practices
Ensure the baby sleeps on their back on a firm, flat mattress, without pillows or soft toys. Avoid placing the baby on their tummy until weeks after birth to reduce the risk of emergencies and discomfort.
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7. Bathing essentials
Handle the baby’s delicate skin with care, using warm water for bathing and avoiding chemical-based products. Keep bath time short and wrap the baby in a soft towel afterward to maintain warmth.
8. Take extra care of their skin
Regularly apply coconut oil or a chemical-free moisturizer to the baby’s skin. Gentle oil massages are beneficial, but avoid vigorous massage and tight swaddling. Avoid using talcum powder or scented creams.
Also Read: From diaper rash to summer skin woes, follow these tips for baby skincare
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9. Notice warning signs
Keep an eye out for signs like lethargy, poor feeding, fever, loose stools, vomiting, reduced urination, or unusual rashes. If you notice any of these, contact your healthcare provider right away.
10. Follow-up plan
Regularly visit your pediatrician as scheduled and ensure important tests like retinal checks, hearing tests, and neurodevelopment assessments are not missed. Stick to the vaccination schedule to strengthen your baby’s immunity against common infections.
By following these tips, you can care for your premature baby at home with confidence and ease.