“Babies born before the full pregnancy period of 37 weeks are called preterm babies, or simply preemies. There are different levels of prematurity depending on how early they’re born: late preterm (34-36 weeks), moderately preterm (32-34 weeks), very preterm (28-32 weeks), and extreme preterm (born before 28 weeks). These preemies often need special care in the hospital’s NICU, or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
Why is special care necessary for premature babies? Well, because these tiny infants aren’t yet fully developed, they may struggle to cope with life outside the womb. Their lungs, digestive system, and immune system can be weaker, and conditions such as respiratory distress syndrome, temporary pauses in breathing (apnea), jaundice, and anemia can occur. Premature babies might also face complications related to their underdeveloped organs, and that’s where professional care in a NICU comes in.
In the NICU, doctors keep a close watch on the preemie’s vital signs like breathing, heart rate, and body temperature. Tests are carried out to monitor different aspects – these could include blood tests for calcium, glucose, and bilirubin levels, and even echocardiograms to check the baby’s heart. It all sounds intimidating, but remember, it’s all to ensure the health and safety of the baby.
Newborn preemies are normally placed in an incubator, which helps maintain their body temperature. The doctors will also educate parents about the benefits of “kangaroo care,” a method where the baby is held skin-to-skin with the parent for warmth. Nutrition is another key factor. At the start, your preemie will receive fluids, sodium, potassium, and nutrients through an IV or a feeding tube. Breastmilk might be administered via a tube until the baby is strong enough to feed directly.
Sometimes, jaundice can develop in preemies. To treat this, the baby can be placed under special blue lights called bilirubin lights, which help to break down the excessive bilirubin. Preemies could also need a blood transfusion, especially if they are anemic due to the multiple blood tests carried out.
Various medications can be used to support a preemie’s health, for instance, strengthening heart rate and breathing, reducing infection risk, managing fluid imbalance, treating respiratory distress syndrome, and even addressing certain heart defects. In more serious situations, surgery might be suggested.
Once the preemie is out of the NICU and at home, it’s still essential to maintain a careful caring routine. Your baby’s readiness to go home will be gauged based on their ability to breathe independently and feed well. The doctor will also check for any sign of infections before discharging.
As parents, you’ll learn how to provide ongoing care at home, including minimizing exposure to crowded places to avoid infections, and the importance of regular check-ups to monitor the baby’s developmental progress.
Caring for a preemie can be daunting, but with the right care and support, it can also be an extraordinary, rewarding journey of parenthood.”
