Rooming-in
Babies are born with built-in reflexes and mechanisms to assist them to have all their needs met. Fussing, crying and showing certain reflexes is how they communicate what they want. Being with your baby as much as possible helps you to learn your baby’s cues and respond to their needs.
Your baby will stay in your room with you 24 hours a day, unless they require care in the Special Care Nursery. This is called “rooming-in” and it helps you get to know your new baby and allows you to be responsive to your baby’s needs.
Bed sharing
It is advised to not sleep with your baby within the hospital environment. In some circumstances, this has been related to an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and fatal sleeping accidents. Please return your baby to the cot after feeding and cuddles. This is especially important when you are very tired and finding it difficult to stay awake.
Identification bands
Your baby should have two identification bracelets attached to their ankles at all times. These will be checked against your arm band if you and your baby are separated for any reason.
Hand hygiene
There are hand sanitisers in your room and throughout the hospital. Hand hygiene is very important to keep you and your baby healthy and we encourage staff, patients and visitors to regularly wash their hands.
Safety
For your baby’s safety we advise that you:
- do not leave your baby unattended on your bed
- only transport your baby in the cot
- avoid carrying your baby in your arms outside the ward area
- avoid drinking hot fluids while holding your baby.