After Delivery
Postpartum Care
After all the excitement, your nurse will take a few minutes to gather vital information on your baby's condition. A NICU nurse will be there when your baby is born to help transition your baby to the outside world. This first physical exam usually takes place at your bedside and will include weight and measurement, as well as a general check of baby's breathing, heart rate, color and reflexes. Then your baby will be returned to you to allow bonding between you.
Following delivery is an important time of rest and recuperation for you ... and the chance to learn about caring for a new baby. Rooming-in allows your baby to be with you throughout your stay. You'll have the opportunity to begin your care-taking role immediately.
Your nurse is also your baby's nurse - she is there to teach or help with diapering, feeding, burping, bathing and dressing. You will start to learn your baby's routine before you go home. You also can take advantage of the nursery to get some time to yourself. Your nurse will keep you up-to-date on your baby's activities in the nursery and will return the baby to your room when needed.
Learn more about these important topics after baby is born:
