A Guiding Hand for Families in Special Care Nurseries - Digital - Book - Page 22
Transitioning from NICU to SCN
There comes a time when your baby is well enough to graduate
from their special spot in NICU and enter the new world of the
Special Care Nursery (SCN).
It can be scary when your baby no longer needs such a high level of care
and enters the less complex environment of the SCN. In the SCN, there are
babies in open cots and some still in their incubators. Suddenly there is more
noise, babies are more vocal and parents and nurses are talking. The world
of the NICU can seem so sheltered and secure, so this is a big step for you
and your baby.
There are many reasons why a baby needs care in a Special Care Nursery.
Some of these may include:
• continuous monitoring of their breathing or heart-rate;
• additional oxygen may be required;
• baby may need tube feeding;
• phototherapy may be required (neonatal jaundice);
• rest and recovery from other care and/or
• baby developing and reaching the desired discharge weight.
In the SCN, you will find that the ratio of babies to nurses is a lot higher than
in the NICU. While your baby is here, use the time to get more involved in
your baby’s care, in preparation for your baby’s transition home. The nurses
are there to help guide you and support you throughout this process, so
make the most of their knowledge and experience.
Be Prepared
The movement of your child from NICU to SCN can sometimes be
unexpected and sudden. By speaking to the nurses and doctors in charge,
you will be aware of when the move is imminent. There are several reasons
why this move may happen such as:
Your Baby is Stronger: A transfer can mean that your baby is more stable
and no longer needs the higher level of support provided in a Neonatal
Intensive Care Unit (NICU). This is a big milestone that reflects the progress
your little one is making.
Supporting Other Babies in Need: At times, an intensive care bed may
be required for a baby with higher needs. In this case, your baby might be
moved to the SCN where they can continue to receive the right level of care.
Life’s Little Treasures Foundation | Supporting Families of Premature & Sick Babies
19
