MemorialCare - Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care

PART 4

BEFORE DISCHARGE As you prepare to leave the hospital, your nurses, health care provider, and other hospital staff members will talk with you about whether you have the help you need at home. You should also receive written instructions or guidelines about symptoms or health problems to watch out for after you bring your new baby home. Be sure to... • Read the written instructions about how to care for yourself and your baby at home • Talk with your medical team if you have any questions about the written materials • Read all information about medications you and your baby may be taking at home • Ask your partner or a family member to come and listen to your discharge instructions • Have an approved car seat that’s been properly installed in your car • Ask someone to take any personal items (flowers, cards, clothes) home for you Before you go • Review the information about follow-up medical appointments • Make sure you understand the discharge instruction sheet • Ask any final questions or share any concerns before you leave • Find out who to contact with questions or concerns after you get home COMING HOME Just like every child is different, so is every home and family. That’s what makes them so special. You may have a spouse or a partner. Your baby’s world may include brothers, sisters, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and/or cousins. And don’t forget those friends, work colleagues, neighbors, and family pets who are also curious about the new baby. No matter who will be waiting when you bring your newborn home, planning for a smooth arrival is always a good idea. Try to stay as realistic, calm, and flexible as possible as you get to know your new baby and they get to know you. BIG BROTHERS & SISTERS It’s normal for big brothers and sisters to worry that the new baby will replace them. Or that you will love the baby more. Encourage siblings to be honest about any feelings of jealousy, fear, or anger they might have.

Bringing Baby Home

Bringing your newborn home usually means big changes for the whole family. If this is your first baby, going home can feel a little scary. Experienced parents may have the additional challenge of excited siblings waiting to meet their baby brother or sister. Or a beloved pet who has been your “first baby.” Some newborns may need to stay in the hospital a little longer, adding another layer of concern as you head home from the hospital.

What can help • Read books or watch videos together about adding a new baby to the family • Let siblings help with baby planning, shopping, and nursery decorations • Spend quality time with each child doing activities they especially enjoy

Safety tips • Supervise siblings when they are with the baby • Never leave the baby alone with a young child • Never let the baby sleep with siblings • Show older children how to safely hold the baby and support their head

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care