NICU Graduate Visitors

The moment you finally get to take your premature baby or in my case babies home from NICU is a very exciting time, but can also be overwhelming being away from the full time care of a nurse in sterile, hospital environment. As parents we want nothing more than to protect our children. 

Babies who have been born premature and spent time in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or special care nursery (SCN) are often at higher risk of getting an infection than other babies who are born full term. It is often recommended to limit visitors for the first few months, also taking extra special care of where you take your baby.

Family and friends will be eager to meet your new baby and may not understand your concerns for your baby’s ongoing health and wellness. You may like to adapt the following words to suit your circumstances, to help explain to friends and family the importance of your premature baby’s growing immune system.

We are thrilled that after spending X weeks in hospital we have finally been able to bring our precious little baby home! We are very grateful for your love and support whilst in the NICU and know that you may wish to visit (insert parents and child’s name here).We kindly ask for our privacy over the coming weeks as we adjust to finally becoming a family within our home.
(Insert child’s name here) immune system is extremely vulnerable,  and his/her doctors have advised we will need to be extra careful with visitors as a small infection such as a cold could land him/her straight back in hospital.
We hope you understand and appreciate your love and concern and look forward to introducing (insert child’s name) when his/her immune system is stronger.

My twins Aisha and Aaliyah coming home after spending 4 weeks in NICU. The photo is a bit blurry but it's the only one that we have and one that we treasure.

Please talk to your doctor or health care provider about their recommendations once taking your baby home. Most doctors will recommend

• Limiting the amount of visitors to your home until your baby is older and stronger
• Ensuring that if visitors are touching your baby that they thoroughly wash their hands
• Avoid taking your baby to crowded places, such as shopping malls and grocery stores.
• Limiting adults or children who are sick, have a temperature, or have been exposed to an infectious disease near your baby or in your home
• Do not allow people to smoke inside your home, or near the baby

The subject matter provided in these articles is strictly for informational purposes alone and should never be used in the place of a doctor’s advice. Please ALWAYS contact your doctor if you ever have questions or need advice in any area where medical advice is needed or medication is suggested.