Oxygen Dependent Newborn Q&A
What is an oxygen-dependent newborn?
Until birth, your baby’s lungs are filled with liquid. During the birthing process, the liquid is normally absorbed so the baby can take his or her first breath and continue breathing on his or her own.
The lungs of premature babies have not yet matured enough to switch from their liquid-filled state to their air-filled state, and may require artificial breathing machines (ventilators) to help.
Oxygen-dependent babies spend time in the NICU on machines that either does most of the breathing for the baby or assist with keeping the lungs open in between breaths.
How will I give my baby supplemental oxygen at home?
Home equipment to deliver oxygen and measure the amount of oxygen your baby receives (pulse oximeters) is required for babies released from the hospital while still dependent on supplemental oxygen.
Without the support of the hospital staff, you will need a pediatric pulmonologist experienced in the needs of oxygen-dependent babies to provide guidance and support as you care for your baby’s special needs at home.
Cesar Chavarria, M.D., Inc. offers coordination with other medical professionals including the home supply companies providing the oxygen equipment, prescriptions for the delivery of oxygen, assessment, and monitoring of your baby’s progress, and medical advice as you care for your medically fragile baby.
The team also makes adjustments to the amount of oxygen your baby receives as he or she grows stronger and the need for supplemental oxygen decreases.
What safety precautions should I take when using oxygen at home?
In addition to using the equipment as directed and maintaining regular pediatric pulmonologist appointments with Cesar Chavarria, M.D., Inc., you should follow safety precautions for home use of oxygen including:
- Keep your baby’s door open to promote good airflow and ventilation
- Do not smoke or allow others to smoke in your home or near your baby
- Don’t use hand sanitizer, rubbing alcohol, or petroleum jelly around your baby
- Install and maintain working smoke detectors (check batteries regularly)
Oxygen is flammable. Keep your baby at least six feet away from flames, fireplaces, gas appliances with pilot lights, and heaters.
After your baby is discharged from the hospital, call the practice or schedule an appointment online for ongoing care for your oxygen-dependent baby.
