Mega Doctor News
By South Texas Health System
Ethan was one of the approximately 400,000 premature births that occur in the United States every year.* Babies born prematurely – especially before 32 weeks – have higher rates of challenges like breathing and feeding problems, developmental delays and hearing and vision problems.*
Luckily, Ethan and his family had access to services at the Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at South Texas Health System McAllen, where he spent the first 67 days of his life receiving highly skilled care to help ensure healthy growth and development.
What can you expect from a Level III NICU?
A Level III NICU must be capable of providing prompt, advanced care for babies born early, who had difficulties during birth or who have unusual medical conditions. These babies may require sustained life support, respiratory care (including ventilation), feeding support and specialized surgery or imaging.
The Level III NICU at STHS McAllen was the first in the Rio Grande Valley and continues to serve as an integral part of the Maternity Center at South Texas Health System. A quiet space, the NICU is designed to allow the caring staff to maintain a constant watch on all infants. Neonatologists here closely monitor babies’ progress.
The length of time a baby stays in the NICU depends on how sick they are, their weight and gestational age. When it’s time for a NICU baby to go home, we provide training to help the family feel prepared to care for their baby at home.
Creating joyful moments from the start
In addition to the special medical care that preemies require, premature births can take an emotional toll on the whole family. Mothers often report feelings of guilt, fear and anxiety,** while the long hours spent at a hospital – and leaving a newborn child in the NICU and traveling home – can be draining and stressful for all family members.
For Martinez, one of the most overwhelming moments came when she held her son for the first time. “Ethan had multiple lines and tubes, which made it difficult for me to carry him during his first week,” she says.
Finally, on Ethan’s seventh day of life, Martinez was able to hold him for the first time.
“I remember feeling nervous, excited and scared all at once, but one of the NICU charge nurses reassured me that it was going to be fine. She walked me through the plan and ensured he was held properly and positioned before removing her hands from his tiny body,” Martinez says. “Her encouragement, support and care helped create a joyful and unforgettable moment for me and my baby.”
Strong beginning, bright future
Today, Ethan is a healthy and thriving five-year-old who loves to ride his scooter and play outside with his brothers. Martinez credits the staff at the STHS McAllen Level III NICU with helping give him a strong start in life.
“The neonatologists, nurse practitioners, RNs, respiratory techs, physical therapists and CNAs all played a large role in his healing,” she says. “Our family had trust and confidence in the entire NICU team. We knew Ethan was getting exceptional care.”
Understand the signs of preterm birth
Be aware of signs that may indicate your baby is coming early, which can include bloody discharge, pain or pressure in your belly, contractions, and a constant dull backache. Call your doctor right away if you are concerned.
Although the reasons for premature births are not fully understood, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:*
- Avoid drugs and alcohol.
- Quit smoking.
- Get prenatal care throughout your pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you’ve had a previous preterm birth.
If the unexpected happens while you’re expecting, be assured that the Level III NICU at STHS McAllen is ready to treat you and your baby with advanced, compassionate care.
In a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
*Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
**National Institutes of Health
Folow the link below to learn more:
https://www.southtexashealthsystemmcallen.com/services/nicu
Information source: STHS
