The Best Birth Podcast Episode 26 - NICU Navigator: Understanding Neonatal Care with NICU Nurse Carrie Fox
INTERVIEW OVERVIEW
In this episode, Carrie Fox, a NICU nurse, shares insights and reassurance about the NICU experience. She discusses the different types of babies that are admitted to the NICU, the reasons for their admission, and the interventions and care they receive. Carrie also talks about feeding options, visiting hours, and the support resources available for parents. The episode provides valuable information for expectant parents and highlights the importance of prenatal care and being informed.
TAKEAWAYS
The NICU is a place where babies receive intensive care and support, and it is staffed by caring and knowledgeable healthcare professionals.
Babies are admitted to the NICU for various reasons, including respiratory distress, prematurity, and other medical conditions.
Prenatal care is crucial in detecting and preparing for any potential issues that may require NICU care.
Feeding options in the NICU depend on the baby's respiratory support, and options include breast milk, donated breast milk, and formula.
Visiting hours in the NICU are typically flexible, allowing parents to spend time with their baby whenever they want.
Support groups and resources are available for parents to connect with others who have had NICU experiences and seek emotional support.
WORDS OF WISDOM
Don't be too scared. Everyone's really nice there.
The NICU is one of those things that people just don't ever like, especially with a normal, healthy pregnancy, you do not see that your baby is going to get whisked away to the NICU.
If they're on CPAP, it's not safe for us to be trying to breastfeed or bottle feed because of the risk of aspiration.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to the NICU and reassurance for parents
02:55 Unforeseen NICU admissions and the need for respiratory support
08:51 Feeding options in the NICU
13:18 Flexible visiting hours in the NICU
TALKING POINTS
NICU, neonatal intensive care unit, babies, respiratory distress, prenatal care, feeding, visiting hours, support groups
RESOURCES
What to Expect When You're Expecting -Heidi Murkoff and Sharon Mazel
“Caring for a premature baby can be emotionally taxing, and it's important for parents to seek support...Preemie development may follow a different timeline compared to full-term babies, and milestones may be reached later, but each step forward is a significant achievement.”
Carrie Fox
Carrie Fox is a registered nurse who spends her days (actually, nights!) working with babies in the NICU. When she’s not working in the NICU, Carrie enjoys photography, spending time with friends and family, and traveling the world.
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