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For Patients, Families & Visitors
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More on Taking Care of Yourself
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Taking Care of Yourself
While your child is in the NICU, it is natural that you will feel overwhelmed at times. You need to take care of yourself so that you can take care of your family.
- Make sure that you eat regularly.
- Drink water to stay hydrated, especially if you are breastfeeding.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Be sure to take breaks.
- Get outside as the weather permits (walk in the garden, eat out).
- Closets are available for parents' storage of non-valuables. Consider keeping: - a toiletry kit (toothbrush, mouthwash, soap, brush, contact lens solution, flip flops for the shower)
- an energy bar or snack and a bottle of water for busy days or for when it is too difficult to leave the bedside
- a sweater or sweatshirt
- a pillow for the chairs (postpartum moms may want a foot stool for swelling ankles)
- a Boppy pillow to help support the baby and tubing
- Keep on hand small bills and change for vending machines.
- Seek support that is positive; if you need help finding support, or a particular support group, please ask a social worker.
- Say "yes" to offers of help -- meals, rides for other children, etc. People want to help. You need it. Let them.
- Talk with other NICU parents -- they can relate to your experience.
- Be kind to yourself. This can be a stressful and emotional time. There will be good days and bad, successes and setbacks. We know this is hard, but try to take it one day at a time.
