From Risky Early Birth To Full Grown State: The Story Of LHS Nanyuki's Youngest Preterm Baby

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Every parent desires a healthy and stable delivery. In some cases, however, births occur earlier than expected-preterm births. Babies born this way must be placed in a nursery, an artificial environment to enable vital organs to develop.

  

Excitement filled the Newborn Unit (NBU) as the unit's youngest preterm baby was finally discharged on Monday last week. It was a humbling moment for the parents as they reflected on their four-month journey to save their newborn's life.

  

Due to a separate medical emergency, Mary(not her real name) from Timau was admitted to LHS Nanyuki's Emergency Department on November 6, 2021. She was 24 weeks pregnant at the time, but complications caused her to go into premature labor.

  

Shortly after, she gave birth to a five months old infant, and the fight to save her life began. At 680 grams, a sheer 1900 grams short of normal birth weight, the infant instantly took the slot as the youngest client ever to be admitted at the NBU. The baby's journey was not an easy one. She lots 200 grams in the first 10 days, a major concern for medics, as it was outside the normal weight loss bracket. However, the baby's weight steadily improved since then up until discharge. On the discharge day, February 28, 2022, the infant weighed 1.8 kilograms, the standard weight for transitioning a premature baby from NBU care to home-based care. This has become the first extreme preterm birth that the unit has successfully dealt with.

  

The four-month journey to save the baby's life involved almost every department in the facility. It was an incredible journey and we thank everyone involved. NBU team leader Charity Muthoni said. From our pediatrics specialists who provided overall guidance, to the medical officers who were present throughout, and to the incredible role played by our lab in providing the much-needed test results, I say thank you on behalf of my colleague nurses and support staff for a job well done.The team leader also thanked the administration and the nutrition department for their advice on the delicate dieting routine.

  

The social works office came in handy, boosting the mother's morale during her lowest periods of emotional breakdown. Her family was also there for her at all times. She received frequent visits from her spouse, who was very supportive and actively involved throughout the process.

  

I am grateful to the NBU unit and LHS Nanyuki facility for providing all the services that my baby and I required for the four months we have been here. I am happy to take my baby home.the happy mother stated.

  

Follow-ups will first be done weekly involving the nutritionist, then progress to once every two weeks with a pediatrician until the baby weighs 2.5 kilograms.

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