Having a baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit or NICU, as its commonly referred, isn't exactly what we plan as parents. Unfortunately, that's where many babies end up. Life as a NICU parent is definitely not easy, but there are ways to help you survive while your baby is getting the care he needs.
Think Positive
When your baby is in the NICU, a positive attitude is needed. You're on edge enough simply because your baby is there, but don't add to the stress by thinking negative thoughts. As often as you can you should remind yourself that your baby isn't sick, he just needs a little more time to develop. Family and friends are very concerned and they'll ask you often "how's the baby doing?" It's good to talk about your baby, but avoid negative conversations, keep it positive. You'd be surprised how much better your positive attitude will help you to feel while you wait to bring your sweet little baby home.
Develop Relationships
You're probably spending a great deal of time at the hospital. Use this time to not only bond with your baby, but also develop relationships with the nurses. These people are caring for your baby, so it's very important that you develop a casual relationship with them. It makes going to sit there for hours much more pleasurable. It doesn't take long to figure out a person's attitude once you start talking to them, you'll find that most NICU nurses are the sweetest, caring, most compassionate people you'd ever want to meet. They genuinely care about you and the well being of your child. Even though it's still hard to leave your child there, it's a lot easier once you get to know the nurses.
Take Time for You
Remember to take a little time for yourself and do something that you enjoy doing. Your baby is in great hands and they're right where they need to be for the moment. The last thing you want is for your baby to come home to a stressed-out or sick parent. Sitting and worrying all day will definitely put a lot of stress on your body. You may feel a little strange having fun while your baby's in the hospital, but know that you're doing this for your baby. Once your baby comes home he's going to need you to be at your best. Allow the nurses and doctors to take care of your baby, for now, and you focus on taking care of you.
When you dream of the day you meet your baby, the last thing you think is that something could go wrong and your baby will end up in the NICU. Unfortunately, we don't always have the labor and delivery that we dream about. Thankfully, medicine has come a very long way and doctors and nurses are able to do so much with our tiny miracles. Focus on all the good things around you, get to know the people who are taking care of your baby, and don't forget to take care of yourself. Doing these things will make your NICU experience much more tolerable.
Lorna Lewis - My name is L.A. Lewis and I am a freelance writer and educator. I've been writing for over fourteen years and I must say that each year I ...
