A Guiding Hand for Families in Special Care Nurseries - Digital - Book - Page 60
Getting ready to go home
Rooming in
Some hospitals have the option of ‘rooming in’. This allows mothers of
babies who have spent time in the Special Care Nursery to build confidence
caring for their baby while still being in a supportive environment.
The stay varies from between 24 hours to 48 hours. While you are rooming
in, you will be providing total care for your baby and attending to all their
needs. You will become familiar with your baby’s feeding cues and learn
settling techniques. You will also be taught how to administer medications
and look after oxygen requirements, if needed.
Looking after yourself: Feelings about going home
As you get closer to bringing your baby home, you may start to feel a range
of emotions such as relief, excitement, and even anxiety. This is absolutely
normal, because after days, weeks or months in the hospital, it might be
daunting to leave the support of your baby’s medical team. Just remember
that as you spend more time with your baby, your relationship will grow
stronger and you will better understand how to meet their needs.
Self-Care: Preventing Fatigue and Exhaustion
When your baby comes home, it is important to have realistic ideas of what
to expect. You could find yourself already exhausted due to work, outside
family commitments and having to travel back and forth from the hospital. It
is easy to get overwhelmed, so just remember that it is very important to take
time out for yourself – not only when your baby is in hospital, but when your
baby comes home. Remember, a happy, healthy parent makes for a happy
family! Before baby comes home, it might be worth sitting down and thinking
about what activities keep you well and talk about the importance of this with
your partner and family.
This might include the following:
Even though
you are at home,
you might like some
help from others.
Look for the ‘Little
Treasures’ app on
our website.
• Getting a long stretch of sleep
• Exercise
• Taking time out to spend time
with your partner
• Reading
• Catch up with family and
friends
• Meditation
Life’s Little Treasures Foundation | Supporting Families of Premature & Sick Babies
• Listening to music
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