Premature babies are born before they are ready to come out of the womb. As a result , they require extra medical attention immediately after delivery. These babies  may need special care which is different from what  full term babies  will need. It may take a few days or weeks before you can bring the baby home.

When can my preemie go home ?

Your baby will be given the okay to go home based on the following guidelines.

• breathe on her own
• able to maintain her body temperature
• able to feed by bottle or breast
• gain weight steadily at the time of discharge

Other medical problems should also be resolved. You may need to set up home care before your baby leaves the hospital.

What questions do i need to ask before i leave the hospital ?

Before your baby leaves the hospital , ask your doctor any questions or concerns  you may have.  Let him or her explain the following :

• how to care for your baby at home
• when to call the doctor’s office or go to the hospital
• what medication your baby needs , if any
• how to monitor your baby’s eating, weight gain  and  if she is getting enough sleep
• how often should your baby come in to be examined . You need to be in constant contact with your pediatrician.  Discuss any  worries you may have about your baby with him

If your baby need special equipments at home

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Some babies need monitors and other special equipments at home. If your child has apnea , monitoring  may be done at home. Some babies may also need to go home with oxygen or other treatments. You and your caregiver will be trained on how to  care for your baby’s special needs. You may also be taught to perform infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Your preemie at home

Premature babies need to be fed more often. It will also take a while for them to settle at home. Get as much help as you can around the home so that you can get enough time getting used to having a new baby in the house.

Sleep is important

Your baby needs  enough sleep to grow and develop well. It will make her rest easier and help you rest too.

Sleeping position : It is important put your baby to sleep on her back. Babies who sleep on their stomachs are at increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome  SIDS .

Placing babies on their backs to sleep does  not increase their risk for problems such as choking, flat head or poor sleep.  Premature babies with certain health problems such as lung problems may need to sleep on their side. Whether your baby sleeps on the back or side, a little tummy time is necessary when she is awake.

NOTE

Some parents may need help taking care of their premature babies. If you need help,

• talk to your pediatrician. He may be a great source of support
• take parenting class or join support groups . Your local hospital can refer you to counsellors or professionals who will support you.