Tips for Supporting Your Premature Baby When You Get Home from the Hospital

More than 400,000 infants are born prematurely in the United States each year. If your baby is one of them, you’ve probably been counting the days until you can go home. Now that the time is here, it’s normal to feel anxious.

While your time in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) may be over, a new journey is just beginning. Giving your little one the support and care they need is essential during this transition.

At Little Angels PPEC in Longwood, Orlando, and Apopka, Florida, our team of doctors, nurses, and physical and occupational therapists regularly works with parents to care for premature babies. Keep reading for simple tips to make this transition smoother and less stressful. 

Follow the hospital's discharge plan

When a premature baby is discharged from the hospital, the care team typically provides a list of instructions, known as a discharge plan. This plan covers key areas, including feeding tips, special instructions for any medical issues your baby may be experiencing, and the next steps for follow-up care with pediatricians and specialists.

Many premature babies need extra support, such as ongoing therapy, oxygen, or routine weight checks. While this list can seem overwhelming, following it closely is crucial for your baby’s growth and development. 

Create a calm and safe home environment

Once your baby is home, it’s tempting to invite friends and family over for a visit. However, these babies are especially susceptible to infection. Waiting a few weeks (or even months, depending on your pediatrician’s advice) can provide additional time for their immune system to develop.

Similarly, creating a comfortable environment is key. Keep noise and light levels low to prevent overstimulation, and make sure your baby’s crib is safe for sleep. We recommend buying a firm mattress, avoiding loose bedding, and ensuring your baby sleeps on their back. 

Watch for feeding and growth cues and signs of illness

Premature babies often have trouble latching or feeding, so getting them to eat can be a challenge. Try to feed on cue, but also track how much formula or breast milk your baby consumes. 

It’s normal for premature babies to get tired during feedings, so don’t worry.  Just pace meals as needed. Slow weight gain is common, but your pediatrician will alert you to anything outside the normal range.

In addition to monitoring feeding and growth, keep an eye out for signs of illness. If your baby develops a fever or experiences trouble breathing or feeding, don’t wait to contact your care team. 

You can reduce the risk of illness by washing your hands regularly, avoiding crowded places with your preemie, and limiting contact with sick friends and family members.

Request an appointment for your preemie today

Caring for a premature baby is physically and emotionally exhausting, but it is also incredibly rewarding. While every infant’s journey is different, know that you aren’t alone. With patience, support, and plenty of love, your preemie can thrive and meet all their growth and developmental milestones.

We offer various services for premature babies, including medical therapy, home health care, and more.

To learn more about how we can help your family, contact the nearest Little Angels Pediatric Extended Care office in Orlando, Apopka, or Longwood, Florida. Call our office or book your appointment online.