The Common Questions of Parents
with infants in the Elliot NICU

We have gathered the frequently asked questions that parents have about their baby and the NICU experience, the nature of treatment, and what to expect during the course of it through discharge from the unit.

Q. What's wrong with my baby?

Ask for medical terms to be written down in words you can understand. Ask for as much information as possible about your baby's diagnosis.   Most intensive care nurseries have pamphlets or other printed material available for parents.

Q. Who is caring for my baby?

Your baby will be cared for by a variety of professionals.   Each has a particular role.   Ask for the name of the physician responsible for your baby's medical care.   Ask for the name of the nurse who will take care of your baby most of the time (primary nurse).

Q. Will my baby survive?

A great majority of NICU babies grow up to be normal, healthy children.

Q. Is my baby having any discomfort or pain?

Your baby's level of comfort will be assessed on a regular basis. We will make every effort to prevent discomfort when possible. We have many methods of helping your baby if he/she is experiencing pain or discomfort.

Q. What are the options for treatment?

The physician will discuss with you what kinds of treatments, medicines, equipment, or surgery are best for your baby's condition.

Q. How risky is the treatment or procedure?

The physician will explain the side effects and possible complications involved with treatments and procedures.   The physician will also explain the long-term effects and whether your baby will need other treatments in the future.

Q. Should we get another opinion or consultation?

It is not uncommon for the physician to ask another professional to examine your baby or consult with him/her regarding the special issues your baby may have.

Q. Can you care for my baby here or should my baby be moved to another hospital?

Some hospitals, nurseries, and physicians specialize in treating certain types of medical problems.   If the physician recommends transfer, s/he will explain the transport procedure and provide you with information about the hospital where your baby is being transferred.

Q. Do we have to make decisions right now or do we have some time to think it over?

The physician will explain which decisions and choices about your baby's care need to be made immediately, and which can wait.

Q. What will all this cost?

Ask to meet with someone from the hospital's Business Office to get information about health care coverage for your baby.   Also, ask to meet with the NICU social worker who will discuss long-term costs of your baby's care such as medical needs, follow-up services, home care, and resources available in your community.

Q. What tests are you doing on my baby?

Tests often include blood tests, X-rays, and other special tests depending on the baby's condition.   The doctor or nurse will explain what tests are being done and why.

Q. What will life be like for my baby after s/he leaves the NICU?

The physician will talk to you about your concerns and will offer advice and recommendations.

Q. What should I tell my family and friends about the baby?

Initially, friends and family may be uncomfortable asking about the baby.   Ask the physicians and nurses what terms and explanations you can use when telling others about your baby.   Your explanations may ease their fears and help them be more supportive for you.

Q. Are there other parents I can talk to?

Talking with other parents may give you support. Ask the nurses to refer you to other parents who are willing to share their experience. Also, find out about our parent support group, "Little Miracles," and other parent support groups in your community.

Q. What can I do for my baby?

The NICU staff will involve you in your baby's care as soon as your baby is well enough.   In the meantime, you can sit with your baby and talk softly to him/her.   You may also bring in small, soft, colorful toys for your baby.

Q. When will my baby go home?

Your baby will go home when s/he:

• Is able to breathe on his/her own without the aid of a ventilator or respiratory equipment (some infants go home on oxygen).
• Stays warm in a crib.
• Breast-feeds well or takes all feedings from a bottle.
• Weighs at least 1800 grams (around 4 lbs.) and is gaining weight at a steady rate.
• Is in stable medical condition (some infants go home on monitors).

Q. How will decisions be made concerning my baby's discharge?

Your baby's care close to discharge may be overseen by a neonatologist or a pediatrician.   The physician will discuss with you treatments or procedures your baby will continue to receive after discharge.

Q.What should I bring to the hospital on the day my baby is discharged?

On the day your baby is discharged bring:

• An infant car seat.
• Baby blankets.
• Clothes for your baby to wear home (remember to dress your baby according to the temperature and weather).

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