Safe travel with your premature infant
Content provided by Healthwise
Safe travel with your premature infant
After your infant is discharged from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), you may need to take special precautions for car travel.
Some premature infants cannot sit in a car seat without slouching over, which interferes with their breathing and oxygen supply. Before discharging your infant from the hospital, the NICU staff will monitor for breathing and oxygen problems while your infant sits in your car seat. If he or she "fails" the car seat test, a car bed will be necessary for transport until your infant is stronger. Many hospitals have car beds available to rent or lend.
If your infant is sent home with oxygen, a monitor, or other supportive technology, secure the equipment under a vehicle seat or on the floor during travel.
Credits
| Author | Debby Golonka, MPH |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Jennifer Merchant, MD - Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 8, 2007 |
| Last updated: | May 08, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Debby Golonka, MPH |
| Reviewed By: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Jennifer Merchant, MD - Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
