Miguel’s First Birth Record – Photo: Personal Collection/Disclosure

NICU physician Dr. Clarissa Alberton Haas Serpa explains that babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy are considered premature. The earlier, the higher the risk of mortality and complications. With prenatal care, preterm birth can be avoided: “Situations like infections, high blood pressure, diabetes, twins are some of the conditions associated with preterm birth. The main warning signs of labor are loss of fluid, contractions, bleeding and pain in the abdomen or lower back,” explains the resuscitator.

The couple watched the child closely every day, striving for the best for their son. They only came home to sleep. “We followed the exams, applauded and rejoiced at every positive step he took, feeling touched by the parents of other children. Whether we like it or not, everyone was there in a big group, so in the end we were also touched by the situation of the other children,” explains Renato.

Baby Miguel in the neonatal intensive care unit of the Santa Catarina Hospital in Blumenau – Photo: Personal collection/Disclosure

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is equipped and prepared to meet the needs of every baby that comes through it. The goal is to support the child until maturity and to treat possible complications. The resuscitator explains that very often an incubator is needed to “maintain temperature and humidity, as well as ventilation, nutrition, hemodynamic support and other things.” They also require cardiac, ophthalmologic, and often neurological follow-up. In addition to the entire multidisciplinary team (nurses, dietitians, speech therapists, psychologists, physiotherapists) who are involved in the treatment and ensure the stimulation and development of these children,” says Clarissa.

Despite HSC Blumenau’s best efforts to make patients’ stay more enjoyable, the atmosphere is tense and a huge support network is needed. “These were tiring moments, my wife and I supported each other very much because it was difficult to return home and leave our boy in the hospital,” comments Renato.

The father says that in the intensive care unit they did everything they could to help: “Little by little we were able to develop. We tried to help him right away with feeding, changing diapers, with him in the incubator, so whatever we could be present as parents, we tried to do from the very beginning.” Upon discharge, 34 days after hospitalization, Miguel was able to return home with his family. The couple explains that during this period it was important to re-adapt to their son’s needs, they gradually adapted to the new daily routine at home.

Mom Natalia with Miguel on her lap – Photo: Personal collection/Disclosure

This parental involvement is fundamental in the care of premature infants. Kangaroo Mother Care is a health policy that encourages family presence, skin-to-skin contact with the baby even while the baby is still in the NICU, and encourages breastfeeding. “Even if the baby is not yet breastfed, the mother can express milk and offer it to the baby. After discharge from the intensive care unit, premature babies continue to require special attention, frequent medical supervision and monitoring of their development,” the doctor concludes.

Find out more about the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Santa Catarina de Blumenau Hospital and follow us on social media: Facebook | Instagram

Photoshoot of Miguel as a “newborn” next to his little sister’s shoes – Personal Collection/Disclosure

Miguel is released from the intensive care unit and is loved by all the specialists – Personal Collection/Disclosure

Family Fun at an Amusement Park with Baby Miguel – Personal Collection/Disclosure