How can I prepare my infant for a hospital stay?
-
RealAge answered:While getting any medical care for an infant is scary, you’re actually getting off pretty easy as far as planning goes. Why? Two biggies: First, your ten-week-old isn’t accustomed to long talks yet and will be ready to go to the hospital the minute you are. Second, you can spend most of your energy making sure that the hospital is ready for your infant, and that you and your family are prepared to handle the schedule complications even a short hospital stay will bring.
On the downside, expect your baby to be upset when you get to a big, busy, clinical place and she senses this isn’t her auntie’s house. So your already stressful day may be accompanied by that classic soundtrack “Endlessly Screaming Baby.” Remind yourself that it’s normal for infants to cry. I know that it’s not easy to hear (for parents and innocent bystanders alike), but crying is how your little one communicates discomfort or fear. And she’ll have plenty of both, since you’re taking her to a strange environment with strange people, startling sounds, and harsh smells. Honestly, if the odor of hospital disinfectant nearly makes you want to cry, just imagine how she feels.
Try not to wear fear on your face; infants pick up on that. You might not believe it, but staying calm can be the biggest help to your baby. Ask hospital staffers about specific concerns or worries you have if it helps you stay steady.
From The Smart Parent's Guide: Getting Your Kids Through Checkups, Illnesses, and Accidents by Jennifer Trachtenberg.
Find out more about this book: The Smart Parent's Guide: Getting Your Kids Through Checkups, Illnesses, an...
While getting any medical care for an infant is scary, you’re actually getting off pretty easy as far as planning goes. Why? Two biggies: First, your ten-week-old isn’t accustomed to long talks yet and will be ready to go to the hospital... More
