Here are some reasons why premature babies can now survive:
1. Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs):
NICUs are specialized hospital units equipped with advanced medical technology and a team of healthcare professionals trained in caring for premature infants. These units provide a controlled environment that meets the unique needs of premature babies, including:
- Incubators to regulate body temperature
- Ventilators to assist with breathing
- Monitoring systems to track vital signs and detect any complications.
2. Surfactant Replacement Therapy:
Premature babies often lack sufficient surfactant, a substance that helps the lungs expand and function properly. Surfactant replacement therapy involves administering synthetic surfactant to the baby's lungs, aiding in breathing and reducing the risk of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), a common complication in premature infants.
3. Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC):
KMC involves close skin-to-skin contact between the premature baby and the mother or primary caregiver. KMC provides warmth, promotes bonding, and stabilizes the baby's heart rate and breathing.
4. Nutritional Support:
Premature babies have immature digestive systems, so they may require specialized feeding methods. This can include intravenous (IV) nutrition or feeding through a nasogastric (NG) tube directly into the stomach. As the baby's digestive system matures, they can gradually transition to oral feeding.
5. Medications and Treatments:
Premature babies may need various medications and treatments to address specific complications, such as antibiotics for infections, medications to support heart function, and interventions for conditions like jaundice.
With these advancements in medical care, many premature babies can not only survive but also thrive and grow into healthy individuals. However, it's important to note that the level of care required and the long-term outcomes can vary depending on the baby's gestational age, birth weight, and any associated medical conditions.