Monitoring Your Baby

Your baby will be closely monitored to ensure they receive the best possible care. You may notice:

• Heart and oxygen monitors – These track your baby’s heart rate, breathing, and oxygen levels.

• Temperature monitoring – Your baby’s temperature is carefully regulated, often with the help of incubators or warmers.

• Blood tests – Regular blood tests check for infections, oxygen levels, and other vital information.

• X-rays and ultrasounds – These imaging tests help assess your baby’s organs, lungs, and overall development.

• Vital signs monitoring – Continuous tracking of heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation to ensure stability.

 

Feeding and Nutrition

Depending on your baby’s needs, different feeding methods may be used:

• Breastfeeding or bottle feeding – If your baby is strong enough, they may be able to nurse or take a bottle.

• Feeding tubes – A small tube may be used to deliver milk if your baby is not yet able to feed by mouth.

• IV Nutrition – If needed, your baby may receive essential nutrients through an intravenous (IV) line.

 

Breathing Support

Some NICU babies need help with breathing as their lungs continue to develop. This support may include:

• Oxygen therapy – Extra oxygen may be given through a nasal cannula or mask.

• CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) – This helps keep your baby’s lungs open and makes breathing easier.

• Ventilators – In some cases, a ventilator may be used to help your baby breathe if they are unable to do so on their own.

 

Medical Procedures and Treatments

Some babies may require additional medical interventions, including:

• Blood transfusions – If necessary, your baby may receive donated blood to treat anemia or other conditions.

• Intravenous (IV) lines – Used to deliver fluids, medications, or nutrition directly into the bloodstream.

 

Protecting Against Infections

Babies in the NICU have delicate immune systems, so infection prevention is a top priority. To keep your baby safe:

• Hand hygiene – Everyone entering the NICU must wash their hands thoroughly.

• Limited visitors – To reduce the risk of germs, visitor access may be restricted.

• Special precautions – In some cases, extra steps like protective gowns or isolation may be necessary.

 

Developmental Care

We encourage practices that support your baby’s growth and comfort, including:

• Skin-to-skin contact (Kangaroo Care) – Holding your baby against your chest can promote bonding and stability.

• Reducing noise and light – The NICU environment is carefully managed to protect your baby’s developing senses.

• Therapies and positioning – Special positioning and gentle therapies help support your baby’s movement and development.