Premature Baby Incubator With Height Adjustment

Why would a baby need to be in an incubator? Incubators are a fixture in NICUs. They are used in combination with other equipment and procedures to ensure that babies needing extra support have the best possible environment and continual monitoring. It may help to think of them as a second womb designed to protect a baby and provide the optimal conditions for their development. There are many reasons why a baby may need to be inside an incubator. These can include: Premature birth Babies born prematurely may need additional time to develop their lungs and other vital organs. (Their eyes and ear drums may be so sensitive that normal light and sound would cause permanent damage to these organs.) Also, babies born extremely early will not have had the time to develop fat just under the skin and will need help to keep themselves warm and toasty. Breathing issues Sometimes babies will have fluid or meconium in their lungs. This can lead to infections and an inability to breathe well. Newborns may also have immature, not fully developed lungs that require monitoring and extra oxygen. Infection Incubators can reduce the chance of germs and additional infection while a little one heals from an illness. Incubators also offer a protected space where ita s possible to monitor vitals 24/7 when your baby also needs multiple IVs for medication, fluids, etc. Effects of gestational diabetes Many doctors will briefly incubate a baby if the mother had gestational diabetes, so that the baby can be kept nice and warm while they take time to monitor their blood sugars. Jaundice Some incubators include special lights to help reduce jaundice, a yellowing of a babya s skin and eyes. Newborn jaundice is common and can occur when babies have a high level of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during normal breakdown of red blood cells. Long or traumatic delivery If a newborn baby has experienced trauma, they may require constant monitoring and additional medical supports. The incubator can also offer a safe womb-like environment where a baby can recover from the trauma. Low birth weight Even if a baby is not premature, if they are extremely small, they may not be able to stay warm without the additional help an incubator offers. Additionally, very small babies may struggle with many of the same vital functions premature babies do (i.e. breathing, and eating), benefiting from the extra oxygen and controlled environment an incubator offers.