How to Support NICU Families

Having a baby in the NICU poses many unexpected challenges for new parents that can impact them significantly. Unfortunately, many doulas find themselves unprepared or unsure of how to best support clients who become NICU families. This course will equip doulas with the knowledge, tools, and confidence necessary to support birthing parents, and partners who have or have had a baby in the NICU.

When taking this course, you will learn:

Common terminology surrounding preterm labor and birth
Risk factors for NICU admission
Risk factors for preterm labor and preterm birth
Medical equipment commonly used in NICU patient rooms
Who the members are of a NICU patient’s medical team
What NICU parents can expect of their child’s stay
How NICU parents can be involved in their child’s care
How Doulas can effectively support NICU families

This course prepares learners to support NICU parents and their partners. It enriches the knowledge base of birth professionals, and adds an additional tool to their professional toolbox.

Lessons

Introduction Terminology & Risk Factors Medical Equipment and Medical Team What a NICU Parent Can Expect of Their Child's Stay and How They Can Be Involved How Doulas Can Support NICU Families Conclusion and Resources