Infections
Nature of infections
Treatments for infections
Nature of infections. Preterm babies have immature immune systems and are therefore more susceptible to developing an infection. The infection could be of the baby's lungs, skin, or brain and can sometimes be life threatening.
A few babies are already born with an infection because one developed in the uterus before they were born (for example if the waters were broken for a prolonged period of time). This is referred to as a 'perinatal infection'.
Other babies may acquire an infection whilst being cared for in the hospital. This is called a 'nosocomial infection'. Nosocomial infections are more common for very preterm babies who spend a long time in the intensive care nursery. Their occurrence is more likely when the baby needs many interventions, such as drips and tubes or needs to be handled by many people.
It is very important that you wash your hands thoroughly before touching your preterm baby. Caregivers are very conscious of not causing infections for preterm babies and will also adhere to strict hand washing before attending to your baby.
If you, your partner, other children or relatives have cold sores, a skin infection, diarrhoea or other illnesses, you should check with the caregivers about whether that person should have direct contact with your baby.
Equipment used in intensive care nurseries must be sterilised and changed frequently. Be aware that staff may restrict placing fluffy toys or other items near your baby for prolonged periods as they can become contaminated and carry infection. (You may need to frequently launder fluffy toys etc), ask your caregivers.
Treatments for infections. Infections will generally be treated with antibiotics. If the baby is thought to be unwell because of an infection, the caregiver may need to carry out a 'septic work-up'. This entails the caregiver testing for where the infection may be.