The arrival of a premature baby requires some special care at home, but never forget that the most important thing is your love.
When a premature baby is discharged home, it implies that he is strong enough and has largely recovered from the complications presented at birth; that is, you don’t need help breathing, eating, gaining weight, sucking, or keeping your temperature stable. But it is important to follow some advice from specialists about your home care.
1. The ideal is to maintain a relatively warm environment (around 22 degrees) and without sudden changes in temperature inside.
2. Hygiene is vital, so it is important to wash hands frequently, prevent contact persons or other sick children, do not leave food scraps or other trash in your room and wash perfectly your bottle (if to be used).
3. In the beginning, restrict visits, in addition to avoiding going with the baby to places that are too confined or crowded.
4. The most common infections in premature babies are respiratory and digestive, so it is essential to avoid contact with any contaminated person, object or food.
5. Ideally, keep breastfeeding for as long as possible, so that you receive the nutrients that help strengthen your immune system.
6. Some specialists recommend changing your diaper every three to four hours, even if you haven’t soiled it.
7. You must be very punctual and strict with your vaccination schedule. In the case of the influenza vaccine, it should be administered to premature infants older than six months, especially if they have had complications.
8. Premature babies require continuous medical follow-up, especially those born weighing less than 1,500 grams. In addition, they should go to their pediatrician if they observe any symptoms of illness or sudden changes in their mood.
9. Most importantly, remember that it is a little like the rest, so the best care they can give you is a lot of love and encouragement to grow happily.
The arrival of a premature baby home can raise many questions and some uncertainty about what, how or when to do. The truth is that although premature babies require the same care as other infants, it is important to know how to adjust care to their state and age.