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Intensive care for your premature baby

Illustration of intensive care for a premature baby

In the hospital, your baby may first be monitored unclothed on a warmer bed. Later your baby will probably be in an incubator, an enclosed plastic bassinet that's kept warm to help your baby maintain a normal body temperature. Your baby will likely receive fluids and nutrients through an intravenous catheter, and later start breast milk or formula feedings through a tube slid through his or her nose or mouth. Sensors may monitor your baby's blood pressure, heart rate, breathing and temperature, and ventilators may be used to help your baby breathe.
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