Why all expectant parents should learn about the nicu

September is NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) Awareness Month. The NICU is a specialized unit in the hospital where babies who are premature, have complex medical needs, or have experienced complications at birth are cared for.

My experience with this unit comes from both working as a registered nurse in a busy Los Angeles hospital and from being the parent of a patient in the NICU. It’s been eighteen years since I last worked in this unit, but my early career memories of caring for these babies are still vivid. The resilience of these young patients and their parents is not easily forgotten.

Three years ago, when I checked into the hospital to deliver my second baby, I never expected that my son would have respiratory distress and require support with breathing and feeding for the next few days. This was a challenging time for my husband and I; however, I found comfort in my knowledge and past experiences because I could anticipate his medical needs and plan accordingly.

After this experience, I firmly believe that all expectant parents should have a general understanding of the NICU. That way, if the unexpected happens, they’ll be better prepared and know what to expect. This is why you’ll see this important topic covered in our signature newborn care class, “The Sweet Beginnings: Caring for Babies 0–3 Months”. Being prepared means learning about even those things that we hope will never happen to us.