Babies who are premature or born before 37 weeks of gestation require special care. Premature baby care steps aim to keep the baby alive, and ensure that his health condition is maintained.
Caring for premature babies requires more effort and attention, compared to babies born at term. This is because important organs, such as the lungs, digestive tract, and skin, as well as the immune system are not functioning optimally. Basically, premature babies are not ready to be outside the mother's womb.
Premature babies require special treatment in the hospital before finally being allowed to be treated at home. Premature babies are usually discharged from the hospital if they can drink breast milk or formula directly, gain weight, and their body temperature remains stable at room temperature.
Things to note about premature babies
The nutritional needs of premature babies is one thing that must be considered. Premature babies usually need more nutrients to grow healthy like other babies. Until the baby reaches two years of age, he may not grow as fast as the baby who was born on time.
In addition, there are also several medical problems that are at risk for premature babies, namely:
- Breathing problems, which may require giving oxygen via a breathing apparatus.
- Nipple latching and swallowing problems while breastfeeding.
- Sleep apnea or pauses in breathing during sleep. This can interfere with the baby's heartbeat, so the baby looks bluish.
- Risk of infection.
Premature Baby Care Steps
Steps to take good care of premature babies can help them to grow and develop healthily. Here are some steps you can apply:
1. Become a kangaroo mom Through this skin contact, your little one will recognize the smell of your body, touch, and the rhythm of your breath and heartbeat. The benefits of carrying with the kangaroo method include: Mothers can do kangaroo care as soon as the baby is born. However, there are also some hospitals that have policies to postpone kangaroo care until the baby's health condition is more stable. 2. Pay attention to the meal schedule Do not panic if the baby often spit up after feeding, because this is normal, as long as he does not lose weight. If your premature baby loses weight due to frequent spitting up, consult a doctor immediately. 3. Pay attention to sleeping position To ensure that your baby can feel more comfortable while resting, put the baby on a mattress that is not too soft and without a pillow. 4. Keep away from sick people Keep the baby away from people who are sick with infectious diseases, such as flu or cough. Protect the baby from viruses and germs that cause disease, by limiting the interaction or contact between the baby and the people around him, such as family, friends, or relatives who are visiting. In addition, avoid bringing the baby to public and crowded places, such as mall. Exposure to pollution including cigarette smoke must also be avoided. 5. Don't miss the immunization schedule Keep spending time with your little one to talk to him and make jokes with love. This will help maintain the bond between mother and baby. Even though you are busy caring for premature babies, don't forget to take care of yourself and get enough rest time. Never hesitate to ask for support and help from others, for example to look after the baby while the mother is sleeping. Never be discouraged, because no matter what condition your little one is in, he is still a priceless gift.
