When your baby is admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), we ask that you provide diapers, wipes, Vaseline, diaper cream, baby clothes, comb, nail file, or anything else from home, i.e., receiving blanket, pictures of family, music, or anything that you feel your baby would benefit from. You may want to bring comfort measures that you will need when you are here in the NICU.
Parents can provide significant care for their baby in the NICU. Once your baby’s condition allows for it, we encourage you to participate in the following along with your nurse:
- Taking your baby’s temperature
- Changing diapers
- Holding the nasogastric (NG) tube during feedings
- Performing kangaroo care (skin-to-skin holding)
- Hand hugging (where you cup your baby’s head and feet; this is a very soothing and comforting position for them)
- Assisting with feeds
- Participating in daily rounds with the health care team to discuss your baby’s plan of care