Micro premature babies, defined as those born between 23 and 28 weeks gestation weighing less than 1kg, need specialized medical care to survive. In the UK, there are around 95,000 premature births each year, with approximately 1,500 babies born weighing under 1kg. Specialized neonatal units in the UK are equipped to care for these babies in a variety of different ways.
Neonatal units are found in most hospitals and are a ward in themselves that help to care for and support babies born before 37 weeks of gestation, they also help care for babies born after 37 weeks gestation who may need additional care and support after birth due to varying reasons.
Premature and sick babies more often than not require urgent and immediate medical attention, and neonatal units offer a range of services to meet their needs. These units are staffed by specialist neonatal nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals who work together to provide the best possible care to premature and sick babies.
Micro preemie babies, who are born before 28 weeks gestation, require extensive medical attention in specialized neonatal units. These babies will require assistance with breathing due to immature and underdeveloped lungs, assistance with feeding and also maintaining their body temperature.
In most cases, they are placed in incubators or on ventilators to help with varying issues arising from their prematurity.
The challenge in caring for micro premature babies is that they are so underdeveloped thus meaning they are more prone and susceptible to infections and other complications, because of this they require constant monitoring and in some cases, round the-clock care. Specialized neonatal units in the UK are well-equipped with the latest medical technology to care for micro preemie babies.
The neonatal units also offer support to the families of micro premature babies. Family support is a vital component of neonatal care, as it can help to reduce stress and anxiety for both parents and babies. Some hospitals offer family accommodation close to the neonatal units, which can help parents to be closer to their baby/s and support them throughout their hospital stay.
In conclusion, caring for micro premature babies is a complex and challenging task. The skills and expertise of the medical staff involved, combined with the use of advanced medical equipment and technology, are essential to the successful treatment of these vulnerable babies. The support provided to families is also a crucial element of neonatal care, as it can help to reduce the stress and anxiety and provide comfort during a difficult time. Overall, specialized neonatal units play a critical role in the survival and development of micro premature babies in the UK.
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