A typical NICU patient I love to think about this one baby boy patient of mine. He was born into my care nineteen years ago. His mother came into L&D with premature rupture of membranes, without any fever. She was given antibiotics and steroids to mature the baby’s lungs. Despite being given other meds to…
How much stress at work can you take?
Stressful work in the NICU I loved my work in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) because there was always some excitement, plenty of intellectual challenges, and various procedures to perform. Some days working in NICU, however, I felt like a fireman running around putting out fires – one baby deteriorating here, another baby needing…
Burnout in Healthcare Professionals
BURNOUT feels like hell! You care about neither your work nor your patients. You no longer think you are making a difference. You dread going in for your shift & you feel disconnected from your peers. I know how burnout feels because I’ve been there. After 30 years of practicing neonatology I found myself completely…
Helping parents navigate the NICU
Tips for parents who must prepare for a NICU journey Expect to be afraid, worried & guilty. Shock & fear are normal. Doubts are normal, so is guilt. But, it’s not your fault! Anticipate feelings of helplessness. It’s the worst kind of helplessness you will ever feel, leaving the hospital without your baby after delivery….
Supporting a friend who is a NICU mom
Ways to offer support for your friend who has a baby in the NICU. Grocery shop for her and prepare some meals for the week. Do Laundry for her – wash, dry and fold clothes. Offer to babysit other kids while she is at hospital several days a week. Offer to Babysit one evening each…