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Health Assessment
Most parents are excited to take their baby home after days or weeks in the NICU. But the idea can make some parents nervous. When a baby is ready to go home depends on many things. Each baby must be checked to see if he or she is ready. And, the family must be prepared to give special care the baby may need.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has a policy statement on when high-risk newborn babies should go home. The information below about discharge is based on those guidelines. Ask your baby's healthcare provider for more information, based on the needs of your child.
In general, babies may be ready to go home when they:
Are steadily gaining weight
Have a stable temperature in a regular crib
Can feed from a bottle or the breast without trouble breathing or other problems
Have mature and stable heart and breathing ability
Babies also need:
Vaccines
Screening tests, including vision and hearing
Exams to look for other problems
Treatment plans for on-going medical problems
Parents and other home caregivers need instruction in:
Feeding
Basic baby care (baths, skin care, and taking temperature)
Infant CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation)
Symptoms of illness
Sleep positioning and car seat safety
Use and care of special medical devices or equipment
Giving medicines
Doing special procedures or care such as suctioning or special dressings
The follow-up care plan for each baby includes finding a primary healthcare provider and specialists to help with any special needs of the baby. Parents also need to get the home ready for the baby. This may include:
Arranging for special home care services or equipment
Not smoking in the house
Making sure there are no extra blankets, toys, or other objects in the baby's bed
If possible, request a parenting room so you can stay with your baby 1 or 2 nights before taking your baby home. This often helps parents feel more secure because. You can take over the care of your baby with nurses and other care providers nearby. Ask if your hospital has a hotline number or call center you can call if you have questions once you take your baby home.