Today I worked in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) and the largest patient I worked with was 1 pound 11 ounces with the smallest being 1 pound 3 ounces. I have posted a couple pictures of the actual size diaper made for these tiny little babies. The first picture I used a Q-tip to help you get an idea of just how small they are. These diapers are actually quite big on these little 1lb babies if you can believe that.
There were a couple bigger babies in the unit that weren't my patients. I saw a 3 lb baby and thought, "wow that's a big baby" - then I saw a 7lb 2 oz little guy and thought, "gee, he'll be getting up and walking out of here soon". Just two pounds on a baby is a lot. My grand daughter, Abby was four pounds and she was the smallest baby I had ever seen, but compared to what I saw today - she was big.
As I stood above each isolette watching these fragile new lives I became very aware of the human will to live. These tiny little babies begin their lives fighting for every breath with an innate desire to survive. One little boy who was born today amazed me at how strong he was despite being only 12 inches long. The road ahead is long for some of these little ones, but with the inspired medical technology available today the probability is good that they will eventually be right where they should be - cradled in their mother's arms.
3 comments:
My darling daughter, have I told you lately how proud of you I am?
gives me chills, so amazing, and the people that work in the NICU are amazing.
Robin,
I love your new blog header. I can so relate to so many of your feelings about your new position. There is alot of security in being able to say, "I am a student". It is scary, just keep reminding yourself you don't have to be perfect and ask for help when you are overwhelmed. and BREATHE. I am so happy for you 6 weeks to go whoohoo. Congratulations
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