For our 52nd podcast episode, I was joined by Dr. Jess Daigle. She is a board-certified pediatrician and neonatal/pediatric hospitalist. Additionally, she is the proud mother of two premature infants, Liam and Avery. Her son Liam, was born at 31 weeks’ gestation and spent 5 weeks in the NICU. After her family’s personal experience in the NICU, she founded and is the CEO of Mom & Me, LLC which focuses on helping both mothers and infants thrive during the postpartum journey and beyond. Dr. Jess carries out her mission by offering local, in-home/virtual care services to newborns, with a particular focus on NICU babies. With the goal to support new mothers and ease their transition home, she also offers life coaching for NICU moms. Dr. Jess helps them navigate through their NICU journey so they can become the empowered, confident mom they deserve to be. Jess and I are both very passionate about empowering NICU parents to be present and engaged while their baby is in the NICU. She speaks about how her personal NICU experience changed her professionally and addresses why it is so beneficial for parents to advocate for their infants. We also discussed the many layers of NICU trauma and why it is so important to support families during the NICU journey and beyond. We share the importance of healthcare members being present, open, and intentional during their patient interactions and how going the extra mile will leave a lasting impression. Lastly, we close out the episode by speaking about how parental empowerment can not only positively shape a family’s NICU experience, but also provide better outcomes for the infant and entire family unit! You will not want to miss this episode! Sit back and get ready to be empowered! Dr. Brown’s Medical: https://www.drbrownsmedical.com Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/ NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/ NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/ Newborn Holiday Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shop/ Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/ Episode 52 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode52 Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/ Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparents Pinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

For our 51st podcast episode, I discussed a contensious topic in the neonatal world, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Although it is a common occurrence amongst all infants, the lack of updated, clear, and consistent diagnostic and management recommendations remains, especially for the NICU population. Due to my personal and professional experiences, it is difficult for me to have one solid stance on the topic. As a former NICU nurse, I saw so many infants experience reflux. As a NICU parent, my son William, struggled with reflux once we brought him home and yes, at that time, it was managed with medication. And finally, now as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, I am more knowledgeable about what the evidence does and does not show regarding reflux and I understand its complexity. So I can fully appreciate how nurses advocate for their patients. I also completely acknowledge the internal battle parents endure as they helplessly watch their baby grapple with reflux and its associated symptoms, and I also embrace what the research has shown and why providers do not hastily start infants on reflux medications. Tune in now to learn the difference between Gastroesophageal Reflux and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, some common symptoms, and how it is typically diagnosed. Be amazed as I debunk some of the common myths and conditions that are thought to be associated with GERD. Additionally, listeners will also walk away with a better understanding of the most up-to-date recommendations for the management of GER and GERD including non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments. So sit back and get ready to be empowered as we discuss Gastroesophageal Reflux. Free Resource: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/ger/Dr. Brown’s Medical: https://www.drbrownsmedical.comOur NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Newborn Holiday Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shop/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/Episode 51 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode51Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

To celebrate our 50th podcast episode, we wanted to honor and hear from our NICU heroes, the NICU graduates. You will hear from several NICU graduates with ages ranging from 5 years old, up to 36 years old. I was honored to be able to sit down with these amazing NICU graduates and learn their perspective, even from my very own NICU graduate as we debut our first official interview together. I spoke with NICU graduates that were born both term and preterm with a variety of diagnoses. It is so interesting to hear what they recall or what they’ve been told about their story from their point of view. You will not be able to help but smile as you hear some of the graduate’s sweet voices. I thoroughly hope you enjoy the episode and are enlightened as we highlight the NICU graduate’s viewpoint. Dr. Brown’s Medical: https://www.drbrownsmedical.comOur NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Newborn Holiday Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shop/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/Episode 50 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode50Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

For the 49th episode on the Empowering NICU Parents’ Podcast, we review necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) which is a life-threatening newborn condition that involves ischemia and inflammation of the bowel. Necrotizing Enterocolitis is a complex disease that despite decades of research, is still not well understood. The evidence continues to support the concurrent presence of several factors that when combined with a trigger, may lead to a disruption of the normal intestinal bacterial flora followed by an altered inflammatory host response. On this episode, you will learn what factors place infants, especially premature infants, at an increased risk to develop NEC. The common clinical symptoms that infants present with once they develop NEC will be reviewed as well as when they are most likely to occur. Additionally, we touch on some of the subtle behavioral changes infants may display at the onset of the disease that are often most obvious to the parents. Next, the diagnostic tests and labs that are typically done once NEC is suspected will be reviewed followed by a description of the Bell staging system which is used to provide a more uniform clinical definition for NEC. The typical management for NEC will also be discussed, followed by a review of some of the common preventative measures that have been put into place in NICUs today to continue to decrease the incidence of NEC. We close out the episode discussing what the prognosis and mortality rate is for infants who have been diagnosed with NEC. The episode is a great overall review of NEC that will be beneficial for NICU parents and clinicians. Start listening now and get ready to be empowered! Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Newborn Holiday Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shop/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/Episode 49 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode49Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

Maternal human milk is the absolute best food for newborn nutrition that supports all of their accelerated growth in the first year. And although we have a basic understanding of the composition of human milk, every woman’s breast milk has a different complexity when it comes to the nutritional content. But, you may be wondering, what exactly is breast milk composed of? For our 48th podcast episode, I review the general composition of human breast milk and what the variations are between preterm, term, and donor breast milk. I also discuss some of the anti-infective protective properties in maternal breast milk and how a preterm mother’s milk has unique and complex properties that are lacking in donor breast milk. I discuss human milk fortification, the different formulations available, and why it is so important in our preterm population. I share why donor breast milk is used in preterm infants over formula and explain its protective mechanisms against necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Finally, I discuss how the pasteurization process, although important, impacts the composition of donor breast milk. I share why it is so crucial that mothers feel supported and are educated. Building trusting partnerships with NICU mothers will help to promote their milk expression, establish breastfeeding, and nurture the feelings of motherhood. A supportive environment coupled with education, has the potential to positively impact the mother’s milk production in the NICU and beyond. The episode is full of valuable, updated information for both NICU Parents and clinicians, so start listening now, or consider sharing the episode with someone who will gain some value from it! Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/ NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/ NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/ Newborn Holiday Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shop/ Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/ Episode 48 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode48 Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/ Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparents Pinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

For our 47th podcast episode, I review some of the general benefits of maternal breast milk and why it is so important for all infants, but especially those who are critically ill and in the NICU, to receive maternal milk. Human milk, often referred to as liquid gold, is considered the gold standard feeding plan for all infants. Maternal human milk provides many nutritional advantages for infants, but it is also advantageous in non nutritional aspects as well. Unfortunately, NICU mothers face additional barriers that make it more difficult for them to effectively express their milk and ultimately breastfeed. Data has shown that for all NICU infants, whether preterm and/or critically ill, receive less than 20% of their own mother’s milk at 6 months of age, most commonly due to insufficient maternal milk production. Mothers whose infants are admitted to the NICU are faced with both physical, emotional, mental, and social inhibiting circumstances that make it much more difficult for them to not only establish their milk supply, but also maintain it. There are also significant racial disparities that exist and human milk provision is lowest among non-Hispanic Black and American Indian/Alaska Native populations. It is the standard of care for most NICUs to utilize Donor Human Milk (DHM) as an alternative or to help bridge the gap for infants when the mother’s breast milk is either not available or there is insufficient volume. Although donor breast milk is a great option that is beneficial, it does not have the same overall protective mechanisms and bioactivity as the mother’s milk. In the episode, we review what some of the common barriers are for NICU mothers in their physical ability and desire to provide breast milk for their infant. I share recommendations on what we as NICU clinicians can do to educate, support, and guide all mothers in a culturally sensitive and supportive manner. By recognizing the common and individualized barriers for NICU mothers, we can share our knowledge in an empathetic and holistic manner. Therefore, mothers and their care partners are able to make an informed decision and one that has the potential to impact their infant while they are in the NICU and in the months and years that follow!Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal:https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/Finn + Emma: http://shrsl.com/2py7dNICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Newborn Holiday Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shop/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/Episode 47 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode47Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

Infants in the NICU, especially those born prematurely, encounter the challenge of effective bottle feeding and/or nursing due to their maturational development. Recently, to support their development, there has been a shift in the paradigm to move away from volume-driven feedings in the NICU to a cue-based approach. The practice of cue-based feedings, specifically the The Infant-Driven Feeding™ Program (IDF™), begins with a neurodevelopmental foundation and promotes positive feeding experiences from the first day of life. The IDF™ program is a developmentally supportive, individualized, cue-based feeding program offered by Dr. Brown’s Medical. For our most recent podcast, I sat down with a former colleague of mine, Lisa Kleinz. Lisa is a Speech Pathologist and a Developmental Care Specialist who is currently the Director of Education for Dr. Brown’s Medical. She is an expert on the The Infant-Driven Feeding™ Program and explains how the program supports the infant’s development, promotes consistent feeding practices, encourages parental involvement, and has resulted in improved breastfeeding rates. The evidence-based research supports the IDF™ program and has shown a reduction in time to full oral feedings, a reduction in the length of hospital stay, reduced hospital costs, improved breastfeeding rates, and increased parental involvement including kangaroo care. The IDF™ program is beneficial for clinicians, parents and the infant. Once staff is educated, more consistent feeding methods are practiced which results in a positive feeding experience for the infant and caregiver. Learn more about all of the benefits of the the The Infant-Driven Feeding™ Program and how it can be implemented in your hospital. After listening, NICU clinicians will learn why it is so crucial to provide positive oral experiences from day one to the infant and how it will impact their future neurodevelopmental outcomes. Parents will learn specific ways that they can be involved with their infant that will positively impact their oral experiences from the moment they arrive into the NICU. Although we are unable to completely eliminate all of the negative experiences in the NICU, caregivers, including parents can make an effort to intentionally protect and support infants throughout their time in the NICU and beyond and the ability to create positive feeding experiences is a key component to that support. Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/ NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/ NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/ Newborn Holiday Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shop/ Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/ Episode 46 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode46 Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/ Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparents Pinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

For infants in the NICU, especially those born prematurely, breast or bottle feeding effectively can oftentimes be a challenge. Maturational and developmental issues impact a premature infant’s ability to adequately coordinate their sucking, swallowing, and breathing. Yet, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), attainment of adequate oral feedings that fully support growth without physiologic instability is a skill that needs to be fully established prior to an infant’s discharge from the NICU. But, what is the best way to achieve full oral feedings in a developmentally supportive manner? For this podcast, we review cue-based feeding programs and why there has been a recent shift in the paradigm to move away from volume-driven feedings in the NICU. We discuss what places NICU infants, especially those born prematurely, at an increased risk for oral aversion and how we as caregivers and parents can minimize the risk. We discuss the benefits of cue-based feedings including how it promotes a more positive feeding experience for the infant and caregiver, its ability to support an infant’s neurodevelopment, as well as findings from some recent research studies that have focused on cue-based feeding. If you are a clinician and curious about implementing a cue-based feeding program into your NICU, then stay tuned to hear all of the potential benefits. And for my parents who are listening, you will learn how beneficial it is to learn your infant’s behavioral cues which will ultimately support your infant’s development in the NICU and at home. You will not want to miss it, so stay tuned! Solly Baby: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/solly/ Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/ NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/ NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/ Newborn Holiday Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shop/ Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/ Episode 45 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode45 Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/ Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparents Pinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

For our most recent episode, I continued to summarize the updated recommendations for care of the preterm and low birthweight infant from the World Health Organization (WHO) that were just released on November 15, 2022. The World Health Organization reviews the most up-to-date research findings and they develop global guidelines that are meant to help end-users or clinicians make informed decisions on whether, when, and how to undertake specific actions such as clinical interventions, diagnostic tests, or public health measures with the aim to achieve the best possible individual or collective health outcomes. Their goal is that everyone, everywhere can attain the highest level of health. The updated recommendations are relevant to national policy makers, NICU supervisors, managers, Neonatologist, NNPs, and NICU nurses. I think it’s extremely important for anyone who works with the preterm and low birthweight population to be aware of the updated recommendations by the World Health Organization. I also believe that it is important that parents of preterm or low birthweight infants have some idea of what the recommendations entail and how it may impact the care given to their infant. So I will finish up discussing the recommendations today spotlighting the most pertinent points. Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/ NeoTech:https://www.neotechproducts.com/product/neoglo/ NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/ NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/ Newborn Holiday Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shop/ Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/ Episode 44 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode44 Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/ Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparents Pinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

Do you often wonder what helps to guide care and policies in healthcare? Guidelines for medical care are driven by research and what the evidence has shown, otherwise known as evidence-based practice. And there are organizations, like the World Health Organization, who review the most up-to-date research findings and develop global guidelines that are meant to help end-users or clinicians make informed decisions on whether, when, and how to undertake specific actions such as clinical interventions, diagnostic tests, or public health measures with the aim to achieve the best possible individual or collective health outcomes. Their goal is that everyone, everywhere can attain the highest level of health. On November 15th, 2022 the World Health Organization (WHO) released updated recommendations for care of the preterm and low birthweight infant. The recommendations were derived from a group of diverse experts and stakeholders. After they examined the most up-to-date evidence from low- to -high income countries, they developed the updated guidance about the care of preterm or low birthweight infants. The recommendations are directed at a large target audience and are beneficial for national policy makers, supervisors, managers, NICU clinicians plus more! Not only is the information pertinent to all of the aforementioned, but it is also important for NICU Parents to know what the general recommendations are for care of the preterm or low birthweight infant. So I wanted to provide you with the cliff notes version spotlighting the most pertinent points out of the 137 page document.  The recommendations include guidelines for preventive and promotive care, care of complications, family involvement and support and a good practice statement. Some of the recommendations are new, whereas others are updated based on emerging new evidence. We started the review in our previous podcast and continue to the discussion today! You will want to hear these new recommendations from the World Health Organization, so start listening now!Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NeoTech: https://www.neotechproducts.com/product/neopockets/NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Newborn Holiday Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shop/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/Episode 43 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode43Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

On November 15, 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) released some updated recommendations for care of the preterm or low birthweight infant. New up-to-date evidence has emerged regarding the most effective clinical interventions in caring for preterm or low birthweight infants so a group of diverse experts and stakeholders from six different regions were selected and began working on these guidelines back in 2020. The guidelines developed by the WHO are meant to help end-users or clinicians make informed decisions on whether, when, and how to undertake specific actions such as clinical interventions, diagnostic tests, or public health measures with the aim to achieve the best possible individual or collective health outcomes. All of the recommendations are evidence-based and they have been reviewed by several committees through several stages to ensure the validity of each one. Some of the recommendations are brand new, like the “hot topic” recommendation of immediate kangaroo care, whereas other recommendations are updated. As I was reviewing the updated recommendations, I realized that it would be beneficial for all NICU clinicians and parents to learn more about them. Since the entire document is around 137 pages, we summarize and provide you the cliff notes version on this podcast episode. So start listening and get ready to get empowered as we review the World Health Organization's recommendations for care of the preterm or low birthweight infant! Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NeoTech: https://www.neotechproducts.com/product/neogrip/NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/Episode 42 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode42Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

As a NICU parent, one of the most difficult pieces of the journey is the physical separation that parents have to endure initially and each day that follows. Every time parents walk out of those NICU doors to go home without their baby is devastating. Parents are left sitting at home wondering if their baby is awake, or are they restless, did they gain weight, did they take their full bottle, or were they able to keep their ng tube out? The company AngelEye Health has developed state-of-the art technology to not only help ease the physical separation, but to also increase connectedness, communication, education, and support for NICU parents. For today’s podcast, I sat down with Jaylee Hilliard, the Senior Director of Clinical Strategy at AngelEye Health. She shared the 4 different solutions AngelEye offers hospitals that work collectively to engage and support parents. Most prominently, AngelEye is known for their bedside Camera System that allows parents and friends and family 24 hours of livestream video access of the baby while they are in the NICU. Once parents are at home, they have the ability to get on the app and see their beautiful miracle whenever they would like. Additionally, grandparents who are not close by or siblings who are unable to visit due to visiting restrictions, all have the ability to log on and see the livestream video of the baby so they do not miss out on their journey.AngelEye also offers an educational platform for parents as well as the ability for NICU clinicians to message and communicate updates with the parents through the platform to keep them informed and engaged. Lastly, AngelEye offers a breastmilk tracker to help parents document pumping sessions as well as lactation resources. Continue listening to learn how Angel Eye helps to support parental engagement and family-centered care during the NICU journey and beyond and why Jaylee’s passion for engaging and educating families has grown even more! If you are a NICU parent or NICU clinician, you do not want to miss this episode!Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NeoTech: https://www.neotechproducts.com/NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/Episode 40 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode41Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

There are many terms and acronyms commonly used in neonatology that most people are not familiar with. Even medical clinicians who are not familiar with the NICU, are unlikely to know about UACs or UVCs. And most NICU parents probably did not know that you can access a newborn’s venous and/or arterial system through their umbilicus until the providers explained the procedure to them.  For our 40th podcast episode, we reviewed some of those common NICU acronyms, but specifically the different venous and arterial line options commonly used in the NICU. These terms may be casually discussed during conversations between NICU clinicians, but it is important that as a parent, you understand the different peripheral and central lines infants in the NICU commonly need. Not only should you understand what they are, but you should also know when they are used or why one option is chosen over another. Additionally, it is imperative that you know the potential complications with each line, so you know what questions to ask when the NICU providers speak with you about each option.Start listening and get ready to become empowered as we review peripheral and arterial lines common to the NICU!Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NeoTech: https://www.neotechproducts.com/NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/Episode 40 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode40Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

It is likely that you’ve heard about a child who has had RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus from a friend, a family member, or perhaps you’ve even had your own personal experience with it. But, you may not realize how common it actually is! Did you know that almost all children get RSV at least once before they are two years old. For healthy children, it is likely to present just like a typical cold or virus, but for some children, they become very ill with RSV. Due to certain infants being more at risk of developing the severe symptoms of RSV, they may receive a series of Synagis injections during the peak RSV season. Infants born prematurely, infants diagnosed with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), or children with hemodynamically significant congenital heart disease are considered high-risk patients who may be eligible to receive Synagis.October is RSV Awareness Month, which is appropriate because the typical RSV season is from November to April. Since we are approaching the peak RSV season, we are going to review RSV, how it gets transmitted, what the typical symptoms are, and when parents should contact their provider. We will also take a closer look at Synagis, what exactly it is, the current inclusion criteria, how often it should be given, the length of treatment, and signs and symptoms parents should watch for that may be indicative of an allergic reaction.  Since RSV is so common and can cause infants and children to require hospitalization, it is important for parents to know preventive measures that will minimize the risk as well as how to identify concerning symptoms. I hope you enjoy this informative episode on RSV and Synagis!Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NeoTech: https://www.neotechproducts.com/NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode39Episode 37 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode39Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

For this podcast, I continued my conversation with Jessica Wolff. We discussed what their life was like once they brought Lily home. She explains how they adjusted to caring for Lily with her tracheostomy along with the necessary life-saving equipment and how all of that completely changed once COVID hit. We discussed how the plan for Lily’s decannulation went completely sideways, how they coped with it, and how they learned that Lily actually needed a full laryngotracheal reconstructive surgery. Jessica proudly shares how Lily is doing today, medically, developmentally and emotionally and how they are navigating everything as a family, especially in preparation for sweet Lily to head to Preschool! We conclude the episode speaking about Nolan, Jessica and Pat's son who they welcomed earlier this year who also spent some time in the NICU. Jessica shares some great information and advice pertinent to other families who are either currently in the NICU and weighing the heavy decision of a tracheostomy for their child, or for the families who have a child at home with a tracheostomy, as well as families who have suffered or may suffer a loss. Listeners will be surprised to hear some of the unexpected emotions that Lily and the Wolff family has had to work through once Lily had her trach removed. And again, you will be amazed by how strong and resilient Lily and the entire Wolff family is! I hope you enjoy the episode! Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Finn + Emma: http://shrsl.com/2py7dEmpowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode38Episode 37 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode37Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

For our most recent podcast episode, I sat down with Jessica Wolff, a mother who has endured loss and 2 very different NICU journeys. For part one of this podcast, she shares personal details on her very complicated twin pregnancy and the difficult choices they had to make along the way. She reflects back on regrets both she and her husband, Pat have experienced as well as what helped them cope through their daughter, Lily’s 256-day NICU stay. Jessica explains what helped them make the decision whether or not Lily should have a tracheostomy placed and she speaks candidly about what their expectations were after Lily’s tracheostomy placement, versus their reality. She offers frank advice for NICU families, especially those with similar situations who have children with feeding issues, ostomies, bronchopulmonary dysplasia or BPD, pain medication withdrawal, tracheostomies, and what going home looked like for their family with a ventilator-dependent child. You will be amazed by what this family has been through, but even more so by their strength and resiliency. Sweet Lily has touched so many lives in her short 4 years, and this is just the beginning of her story, I know she’ll pull on your heart strings as well. So sit back and listen to part one of this family’s story with Jessica Wolff. Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NeoTech Products: https://www.neotechproducts.com/NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode37Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

Infants in the NICU are patients that require specialized care with unique clinical considerations. Specific recommendations must be considered for all systems of NICU patients and the skin is not any different. Infants who are being cared for in the NICU, especially those that were born premature have an increased risk for skin trauma. On this episode, we review some of the skin care guidelines and recommendations available for clinical practice of NICU patients. As NICU clinicians, is is important to not only be aware of the anatomical variations of a term and preterm infant’s skin, but to also know how that guides their clinical care and treatment plan. Many of the topics we cover on this episode have been standards of care for years, but there are also new recommendations for practice and products available based on recent research findings. NICU clinicians will hear a great review as well as up-to-date clinical recommendations for skin care of our specialized population in the NICU. The episode will also be beneficial for parents to hear the clinical practice guidelines and recommendations for term and preterm infants as well as some of the variations that may exist between different institutions. Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NeoTech Products: https://www.neotechproducts.com/Solly Baby: http://shrsl.com/2py8hNICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode36Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

Infants in the NICU are patients that require specialized care with unique clinical considerations. Specific recommendations must be considered for all systems of NICU patients and the skin is not any different. Infants who are being cared for in the NICU, especially those that were born premature have an increased risk for skin trauma. On this episode, we review some of the skin care guidelines and recommendations available for clinical practice of NICU patients. As NICU clinicians, is is important to not only be aware of the anatomical variations of a term and preterm infant’s skin, but to also know how that guides their clinical care and treatment plan. Many of the topics we cover on this episode have been standards of care for years, but there are also new recommendations for practice and products available based on recent research findings. NICU clinicians will hear a great review as well as up-to-date clinical recommendations for skin care of our specialized population in the NICU. The episode will also be beneficial for parents to hear the clinical practice guidelines and recommendations for term and preterm infants as well as some of the variations that may exist between different institutions. Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NeoTech Free Samples: neotechneoshades.comNICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode35Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

Our skin is an incredibly important, multifunctional organ. It has many different functions including helping us maintain our body temperature, it assists with the excretion of water and toxins, and most importantly, protective mechanism of acting as a barrier. But in newborns, especially preterm infants, there are developmental differences in the anatomy and physiology of their skin that place them at an increased risk for skin injury. Not only is the immaturity of an infant’s skin problematic, but infants in the NICU are predisposed to skin trauma due to the life-saving monitors and equipment necessary for their care. Furthermore, infants with compromised skin integrity are at an increased risk for infection, excess water loss, absorption of toxic substances, and additional sequelae. On this episode, we review the basic anatomy of our skin and all of its important functions. We discuss how the skin of a term and preterm infants differs from adults and why the structural variations place infants at an increased risk for skin trauma and additional complications. The episode will be beneficial for parents of infants, especially preterm infants or those in the NICU to understand why their infant is at an increased risk for compromised skin integrity. NICU clinicians will also hear a great reminder of the anatomical and physiologic variations in infants that place them at an increased risk for skin injury. Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NeoTech Free Samples: neotechneoshades.comNICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode34Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

For our 33rd podcast episode, I review the recommendations for screening and managing hyperbilirubinemia. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends universal screening of bilirubin levels in newborns, so I review how that can be done, when it should occur, and when it should be repeated. We discuss which infants are more at risk for elevated bilirubin levels and how those risk factors contribute to guidelines for the treatment plan. I discuss the nomograms commonly used and recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics that guide the care of identifying infants at risk as well as when they should be treated. I review phototherapy, the primary treatment plan for hyperbilirubinemia, including how it effectively lowers bilirubin levels as well as the clinical considerations that should be applied during treatment. Whether you are a neonatal clinician or a parent, this review on how to effectively screen for and manage hyperbilirubinemia will be beneficial. Hyperbilirubinemia is incredibly common in neonates. Clinicians who care for infants whether they are a term newborn in the nursery or an infant in the NICU, will manage infants with elevated bilirubin levels. And parents of either term, healthy infants, or those critically ill in the NICU, it is essential that you understand the risks of hyperbilirubinemia and the screening and management process for it. Tune in now to learn more!Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/NeoTech NeoShades Free Sample: neotechneoshades.comNICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/Bilirubin Document: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/bili/Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode33Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparentsPinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH