Patient's question:
How should premature infants be cared for?Doctor's answer:
1. Due to insufficient sucking strength, feeding should be patient: In the early stages after discharge, one feeding session usually takes 30-40 minutes.2. For babies returning home after discharge, maintain the original feeding amount as in the hospital for the first two or three days without increasing it. Gradually increase the amount once they adapt to the home environment, as environmental changes have a significant impact on young children, especially their digestive functions.
3. A feeding method with frequent, small amounts and intermittent sucking (sucking for one minute, then removing the bottle from the mouth to allow the baby to breathe smoothly for about ten seconds, and then continuing feeding) can reduce the occurrence of vomiting and respiratory pressure.
4. Premature infant formula can be fed to promote digestion and enhance nutrient absorption.
5. Premature infants are also very sensitive to temperature and changes, so it is important to maintain body temperature and ensure stable environmental temperature to prevent illness.
6. Regular follow-up checks and treatments at the hospital: such as vision and hearing tests, jaundice monitoring, cardiopulmonary assessments, gastrointestinal digestion evaluations, and receiving preventive vaccinations.
7. Maintain close contact with the neonatologist for timely consultations.
8. Be proficient in pediatric first-aid techniques, such as handling vomiting, seizures, and cyanotic skin color, to be prepared for emergencies.