Cardio respiratory Monitor
This measures a babies breathing and heart rate. 3 self adhesive disks with leads attached are placed on baby’s chest to read babies respiratory and heart rate. These readings can be viewed on a screen or monitor and if either measurement read above or below an acceptable limit, an alarm sounds to alert medical staff.
CPAP – Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
A continuous amount of air, sometimes with added oxygen, is delivered through tubes in the baby’s nose to keep the airways of the lungs open as baby breathes.
Incubator/Humidicrib/Isolette
This is a special bed where your baby may be kept. Premature babies lack the ability to maintain their body temperature so keeping them in this special enclosed bed keeps them warm until they gain some fat and the ability to hold their own body temperature.
Intravenous Fluid, Lines and Pump
Your baby may require intravenous medication, fluid or feeding. In this case lines are inserted into a vein or artery in baby’s leg, arm, scalp or what remains of the umbilical cord. A special pump regulates the amount of medication or fluid your baby receives.
Phototherapy Lights
Special lights are used to help break down biliruben. Baby will usually be naked, except for a nappy, to maximize the amount of skin exposed to the light. They will also wear a special mask to protect their eyes.
Pulse Oximetre
A probe is taped, usually to baby’s foot, which measures the amount of oxygen in his/her blood. This probe is regularly moved from foot to foot to prevent false readings and ensure no damage is done to the skin.
Ventilator
This is a machine that helps your baby breathe. Oxygen is supplied through a tube, in baby’s nose or mouth that l eads into the windpipe.
The material provided here is for informational purposes only and should not replace, or be used as a substitute for, professional medical advice
Sources: National Premmie Foundation