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Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Taking Care of Business
- Keep 'a care' notebook. Write down everything -- questions, daily updates, physician names, your nurse for the day, weight log, medications, your feelings, and lab and test results. Many parents have found this type of record extremely helpful for being an advocate for their children during and after their NICU stay.
- If possible, have someone with you to listen and take notes when talking to doctors about tests, results, upcoming procedures, etc. It is hard to absorb so much information at a difficult time.
- Consider creating a Web-based care page to keep family and friends updated.
- Talk to a Social Worker and find out about any eligible benefits (e.g., Social Security, etc.) and how to register for any available services.
- Label items you bring from home.
- Leave a disposable camera near the bedside in case you forget to bring in your camera. Take pictures. You will appreciate having them someday.