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friends and family
When a loved one is hospitalized due to a serious pregnancy complication, or has an infant who has been admitted to the NICU, family and friends want to help. Become a productive part of the your loved one’s team, helping to prolong their pregnancy, deliver a healthier baby and cope with a NICU stay.
What to Say
Intent: Want to help out
What to Say or Do:
“Here are a list of things I can do to help (clean your house, watch your children, coordinate meals for you, etc.) I am going to plan to do them unless I hear otherwise from you.”
Intent: To make mom feel better about being on bed rest
What to Say or Do:
“I can’t imagine how difficult this must be for you. If you want, I would love to think of some things you can do to pass the time.”
Intent: Research the pregnancy complication or condition
What to Say or Do:
“I found a few encouraging websites on high risk pregnancies and premature births I can send to you if you are interested.”
Intent: Comfort regarding an older child at home
What to Say or Do:
“I will bring the child to visit as much as I can, hopefully every day.”
Intent: Want to share stories of others in similar circumstances you may have heard about but don’t have all the information.
What to Say or Do:
“Let me know if you want to speak to Jane. Her baby experienced a NICU stay and may be able to provide good information and support.”
Intent: Baby is born and is in the NICU
What to Say or Do:
“Congratulations! I can’t wait to meet the baby. I bet he looks just like you! I can drop you off/pick you up anytime you want to visit him/her.”
How to Help
Gifts
Bring seasonal decorations, photos, bedding to brighten up the patient’s new home.Or browse our online store to send a gift from HRH to encourage them.
Meals
Organize a meal delivery schedule with close friends and family.
Vist MealBaby for Meal registry made easy.
Visiting
‘Drop-ins’ are not considerate, always call before visiting.
Cleaning
Clean their house and run errands.
Older Children
Assist with older children by taking them to school, practice and to hospital visits. Offer to spend nights with older children so the spouse can sleep at the hospital.
Pets
Become a foster parent to the patient’s pet.
Service Pets
Arrange for a service pet to visit the patient on a regular schedule.
Transportation
Organize a schedule to drive the patient to visit her baby in the NICU, if needed.
Spousal Support
Communication the first 24-48 hours
Designate one person to be a contact as numerous calls and e-mails will be overwhelming. If you have access to a computer, write a mass e-mail to friends/family and indicate how you would like people to communicate with you. You should set up a CarePages or CaringBridge website to update friends and family at once.
Work
Ask your employer for time off or take your vacation now. Explain the medical situation to your employer so they can comprehend the seriousness of the situation. It is important to focus on the health of your spouse and child.
Appointments
Try to attend as many doctors checkups, ultrasounds and neonatal consultations as possible. Be present to support your partner by helping her process information provided from the medical staff as two sets of ears are always better than one. Do not hesitate to ask for a second opinion.
Patience and Stress
Find someone to confide in regarding how you are feeling. This can be a helpless and stressful situation. Frustration may build between you and your partner but try to remain patient and understanding.
Delivery and the NICU
If your partner is on bed rest, there is a possibility she may have an emergency C-section. Be prepared for what type of care she will need after surgery and if your baby is admitted to the NICU.
1320 E 9th Ave, 2nd Floor