Question

How should premature infants be cared for?

Answer

  1. Due to insufficient suckling power, patience is required when feeding: Generally, in the initial days after discharge, each feeding session may take 30 to 40 minutes.
  2. For the first two to three days after returning home, maintain the feeding amount from the hospital without any increase; gradually increase the amount as they adapt to the home environment, as changes in environment can have a significant impact on infants, especially on their gastrointestinal function.
  3. Feeding more often but in smaller quantities and intermittent feeding methods can reduce the occurrence of vomiting and respiratory compression.
  4. Premature infants can be fed formula milk to promote digestion and increase nutrient absorption.
  5. Premature infants are also very sensitive to temperature and environmental changes, so attention should be paid to maintaining body temperature and ensuring stable temperatures to prevent illness.
  6. Regular hospital follow-up checks and treatment: such as vision, hearing, jaundice, cardiovascular and respiratory function, gastrointestinal digestion, as well as receiving preventive vaccinations.
  7. Maintain close contact with a neonatologist for timely consultation.
  8. Be proficient in neonatal first aid techniques, such as dealing with vomiting, seizures, or when the skin turns blue, for emergencies.