young patients
Kangaroo cuddles
Parents and their newborn babies in the Neonatal Unit are enjoying eight new reclining chairs to help them get optimum skin-to-skin contact, thanks to generous donations.
The chairs have been proven to help promote kangaroo care, a method which supports in vital areas such as breastfeeding, bonding between parent and baby, decreasing time spent in hospital, building confidence and aiding mums with milk production.
Leanne’ s baby, Edgar, was born premature at 28 weeks. She spent 71 days in the Neonatal Unit with Edgar, during which time she used the chairs regularly.
‘ It was definitely the best part of the day having a cuddle with Edgar in those chairs,’ says Leanne.‘ The chairs make it pleasant, even after a caesarean. You can relax and you don’ t have to worry. If you’ re relaxed, your baby is relaxed.’
Babies on the unit are likely to be on a ventilator to help them breathe and can be as little as one kilo in weight. The new chairs are great for helping parents feel as comfortable and confident as possible when holding their little ones.
These chairs help send a message to the parents that we’ ve thought about making them comfortable on the unit. They really are a big part of us providing excellent patient care. Elaine Wood, Neonatal Sister
Leanne with Edgar
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