It's normal to feel nervous or unsure about how to care for your premature baby when you take them home.
Moving from hospital to home is a big step for you and your baby. It takes time, but gradually you will learn what you need to do.
Your baby is coming home because your healthcare team believe they are well enough to leave the hospital and that you are able to look after them.
Non-urgent advice: Contact the hospital, GP or public health nurse if:
- you have questions about caring for your baby at home
If possible, ask your partner, a friend or family member to organise your home before you leave the hospital. This will make caring for your new baby easier.
Learn about premature babies and development
Temperature
Keep your home temperature between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius. This will stop your baby becoming too cold or too hot.
Do not overdress your baby.
Do not put a hat on your baby indoors if your home is a comfortable temperature.
Sleep
Your baby’s cot should be kept away from radiators and open windows.
Always use a cellular blanket (a blanket with lots of little holes in it) to stop your baby overheating or being smothered.
Lay your baby down on their back. Make sure their blanket is tucked in loosely so it cannot move down further.
Never put a pillow, quilt or bumper pad in the cot of a baby under age 1 year.
The safest place for your baby to sleep at night is in a cot in the same room as you. Never fall asleep holding your baby.
Keeping your baby away from cigarette smoke can greatly reduce their risk of cot death.
Visitors
Too many visitors can overstimulate your baby. Premature babies are more sensitive to sounds and touch.
If your baby becomes overstimulated they may:
- shut their eyes and turn away from you
- extend their arms and legs
- yawn
These are signals that your baby needs to rest.
Make sure everyone washes their hands well before holding your baby.
Never let anyone with a cold or a cold sore hold or kiss your baby.
Ask family and friends for help with housework or caring for siblings. It's normal to need extra support as you and your family settle into a new routine.
Other children
If you have older children, they are probably excited about the new baby coming home.
Let them be a part of your new baby’s care and help you look after the baby.
Activities like story time are an opportunity for you all to spend time together.
Planning a trip outside
After a few days at home, you may be ready to take your baby on a small trip outside. You could go for a short walk, or visit your local shop.
Always bring spare clothes in case your baby gets cold.
Wait 30 minutes after feeding your baby before going outside. This will reduce the risk of them vomiting.
