Preterm birth usually causes a lot of stress and questions for parents. Newborns must be admitted to the hospital for a period of time until they are healthy. Let’s look at the factors that influence the hospitalization of premature infants.
The most common question about preterm birth is “How long should a premature baby stay in the hospital?” is about Every baby is different and requires an individual diagnosis, but there are some general guidelines. Today we are going to talk about premature birth and how long a premature baby should stay in the hospital.
This information will help clarify some doubts for parents who are going through this stage along with fear and uncertainty.
What is Premature Birth?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “preterm infant” means a baby born alive before 37 weeks of gestation. Due to the high risk of neonatal death, it can negatively affect the baby’s health in the short and long term.
Here are some factors related to premature birth:
- Anemia
- High catecholamine levels in maternal urine
- Smoking
- Premature Rupture of Membrane (PRM)
- Arterial hypertension (AHT)
- Vaginal bleeding
- Urinary tract infection
- Lack of prenatal care or inadequate care
- If the mother is under the age of 20 or over the age of 35
- Low levels of amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios)
- Artificial abortion history
- Preeclampsia
- Twin pregnancy
Caring for premature babies in hospitals
Staying in a hospital incubator after preterm labor allows the newborn to complete development.
As various statistics show, health care is essential to the health and survival of premature babies. But what kind of care is needed?
- Immediate breastfeeding and lactation support
- Incubator maintenance to maintain heat balance and minimize risk of infection
- Also, take care of your baby’s umbilical cord and skin hygiene.
- Respiratory assistance and resuscitation if necessary
- Immediate treatment in case of complications (infection, jaundice, etc.)
Moreover, nowadays, thanks to advances in medical care, various technologies promote bonding between parents and newborns. Among them, kangaroo-style care for premature babies stands out, which we will take a closer look at below.
Caring for a preterm baby with kangaroo style
Kangaroo-style preterm care is a technology for preterm infants, based on skin contact between mother and baby and everything that the mother has to offer, including feeding (breastfeeding whenever possible), stimulation, and protection. Dads and other adults can do it too.
This method allows for much more human and natural treatment for premature babies despite being in the hospital. Satisfies body temperature, food and protection needs, and emotional needs (safety and love). At the same time, parents form an emotional bond with their children.
Kangaroo-style babysitting can help shorten hospital stays. In fact, parents can continue to use the technology at home upon discharge depending on the baby’s progress, but almost always follow outpatient follow-up as required.
Some factors that health care professionals consider for discharge are the baby’s body temperature and weight.
First of all, parents should be aware that no matter how short time spent in the hospital, it can feel like an eternity. After the initial shock of premature birth, daily difficulties and impatience pile up. But at this stage, you have to understand that the hospital is the best place for your baby.
There are many factors that determine how long a premature infant should be admitted to the hospital. Among the change in breathing and eating ability, body temperature, and weight. In this regard, the standard of the standard bodyweight that a newborn must reach in order to be discharged is about 1.8 kg. Most babies reach this stage at 2-4 weeks.
In short, for a premature baby to be able to go home, the following must be met:
- A stable body temperature should be maintained for a day or two without an incubator.
- Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding through a feeding tube should be able to.
- You should increase your weight regularly until you reach 1.8 kg.
Now you know a little more about premature births and the care needed for premature babies. However, it should be remembered that each case is unique and development depends on many factors. It is of utmost importance that babies always get all the help they need, both physically and emotionally.
