NICU Graduate Nursery

Preemies sometimes have a long and difficult course while they grow and mature. Because preemies have special needs, there are special procedures that may need to be done before preemie babies can go home. These include:

• Car Seat Testing (babies less than 37 weeks gestation)
• Sleep study
• Hearing Screen
• Vaccines
• Medication administration teaching (if applicable)
• MDT(PKU)-Metabolic Disease Testing
• Circumcision (if applicable)
• Baby pictures

Caring for Your Preemie or New Baby

It is important for all new parents to be involved and informed about baby’s daily care needs. New parents are provided with a “report card” which lists all the tasks that they will need to learn and complete in order for their baby to go home. The Graduate Nursery staff will assist new parents in ensuring that they:

• Bring in the appropriate car seat (written instructions are available from the nursing staff)
• Sign consent for circumcision (if applicable).
• Sign consents for vaccines.
• Attend and complete CPR training.
• Receive home monitor training (if needed).
• Receive Home oxygen training (if needed).
• Schedule follow up appointments as indicated.
• Bring in a “going home” outfit for pictures just prior to discharge day.
• Attend the Preemie Infant Care Class.
• Participate in baby’s care as often as possible.
• Check mailbox and parent info board daily.