Premature babies, even late preterm, often need more care than full-term babies. Feeding, maintaining body heat and even breathing may all require assistance at first. In addition, preemies are at risk for a variety of complications, such as infection, jaundice, apnea and low blood sugar. Although it can be intimidating, there is much you can do to care of your preemie baby at home.
Step 1
Learn everything you can about any conditions your premature infant has, such as jaundice or anemia. MayoClinic.com explains that this will help you better handle any complications.
Step 2
Protect your infant against respiratory illnesses, such as RSV or influenza, by limiting his exposure to other kids and refraining from smoking around him. According to the Parents website, these types of illnesses can be especially dangerous to premature babies.
Step 3
Feed your baby breast milk. It is full of proteins that encourage growth and fight infection. Although a premature baby may lack the muscles to nurse at first, MayoClinic.com suggests pumping to help establish and maintain your milk supply until she is ready.
Step 4
Guard your baby against sudden infant death syndrome. The Parents website warns that premature infants are more at risk for this condition. Always lay your baby on his back to sleep. Do not smoke. Keep toys and bedding out of his bassinet. Do not allow him to get overheated while asleep.
Step 5
Hold your baby often, allowing her to hear your heart as you provide skin-to-skin contact. This will encourage bonding as well as soothe you and your baby.
Tips and Warnings
- The Parenting website suggests buying preemie clothing that snaps in front instead of zips. Snaps can make it easier to feed wires through his clothing if your baby is on any kind of monitoring system. Because even preemie clothing can be too large for your new infant, consider purchasing gowns, bodysuits and sleep sacks rather than pants and shirts.
- MayoClinic.com warns that preemie care can be difficult. Be sure to take care of yourself as well as your baby. Allow yourself to be sad, happy and angry--sometimes all in the same day. Expect to get frustrated or overwhelmed, the stress of taking care of a preemie can be extreme. Allow your partner or an older sibling to take care of the baby while you take a break.
