Homecare For preemies (Premature babies)

Premature babies are the ones that are born 4 weeks earlier than the full-term pregnancy. Few preemies are born as early as 26 weeks or 32nd week. These babies are not as healthy and developed as full-term babies.

The nervous and the respiratory system in preemies are under-developed. Also, their immunity is low compared to full term infants.

All these factors make them highly prone to various infections. Such babies need special care even after getting discharged from the hospital.

Some of the homecare tips that the parents can follow after taking their preemies home include:

• Feeding habits and schedules

Premature babies face a lot of feeding difficulties. They tend to drink in smaller quantities, and hence they have to be fed frequently during the day. They feed as frequently as 10 times a day. Longer gaps between their feeding can lead to dehydration, leading to health-related risks to the babies.

• Keeping a track of baby’s development and growth

Hearing problems and crossed eyes are common issues with premature babies. Also, the growth seen in premature babies is different as compared to full-term babies. It’s important to keep a check on their growth and development to avoid any permanent disabilities.

• Following good sleep habits and schedules

Preemies tend to sleep more, but for a shorter period as compared to full-term babies. It’s important to understand their sleep pattern and follow the schedule. Also, always make your baby sleep on their back as it can reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

• Immunization and check-ups

Vaccination and regular check-up help to monitor developmental delays and disabilities. Immunizing your baby as per the expert’s recommendation is important to prevent them from various infections.

• Restricted and safe contact

Since premature babies are low on immunity, they need to be isolated from outsiders and crowded areas. Also, the parents and other people that come in contact with the baby, are expected to follow strict self-hygiene to avoid any kind of infection to the babies.

• Keep a check on the baby’s weight

The baby’s weight should be monitored from time to time to understand their growth. In case their weight doesn’t show a steady increase, the doctor should be consulted and necessary changes have to be made in their feeding process.

• Kangaroo care

It’s a technique that is believed to support the growth of the baby and helps parents bonding. In this technique, make your baby only wear the diaper and place the baby on your chest for a short time daily.

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