Women's Center
Childbirth
NICU
KANGAROO
CARE
After your baby is no longer in the critical phase, we encourage you to hold
your baby skin-to-skin. The baby is nestled on either parent's bare chest clothed
only in a diaper. So wear comfortable clothing that opens easily in front or
you may request a patient gown. Do not wear jewelry around your neck, perfume,
or aftershave. You will need to talk to the nurse to decide when the baby is
ready for this type of positive touch. Your baby must be medically stable and
weigh at least 2.2 pounds. Coordinate the time to fit your schedule and baby's
care. Most sessions last 1-3 hours.
At first, some
babies may only enjoy being held for short periods. The time increases as the
baby grows and becomes more stable. Eventually the nurse will show you how to
transfer the baby from it's bed to your chest by yourself. After the baby is
positioned on it's tummy and your chest; make sure the baby's head is slightly
up so their airway is not kinked. For the first time, the baby's vital signs
will be checked around 30 minutes of starting Skin-to-Skin Care.
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