Leaving the NICU: Next Steps & Resources 

The timeline for going home varies for each baby. Some babies are discharged a few weeks after their due date, while others may leave around their due date or even earlier. In general, earlier births lead to longer hospital stays. Babies are ready to go home when:

• Their breathing is stable.

• They can feed well by breast or bottle.

• They are gaining weight consistently.

• They have no clinical issues that require hospital monitoring.

• Some babies will be able to go home with a feeding tube or oxygen.

Before discharge, you will meet with a discharge planner or staff member to go over the necessary steps. The period leading up to discharge can be emotionally complex. You may feel:

• Excitement about bringing your baby home.

• Nervousness about losing the support of the NICU team.

• Mixed emotions, as many parents describe discharge day as bittersweet, though primarily joyful.

Yes, NICU graduates often need different care than full-term, healthy newborns. Many parents worry that friends and family may not understand the unique needs of their baby. To help, a pre-prepared letter explaining your baby’s special needs is available for you to share with loved ones. You can copy and paste the text or download a PDF version.

• Create a safe and calming environment by sanitizing surfaces, keeping the space clean, and ensuring it’s free of smoke or allergens.

• Dust mites, pet dander, mold, and pollen are among the top allergens found in homes. Take measures to reduce these allergens.

• Consider a quiet, low-stimulation area for your baby to sleep.

• Baby-proof the home early, especially if your baby may have a longer stay and be more mobile when coming home.

• Safe sleeping practices for babies is extremely important. All parents and caregivers should review safe sleeping information.

• Babies should sleep in a crib, bassinet or cradle. If space allows, this should be in the same room as a parent or caregiver.

• The sleeping surface needs to have a firm mattress and nothing else but a tight-fitted sheet. Sleep sacks can be used for warmth (no loose blankets).

• If your baby is on any medication, ask for prescriptions a day or two before discharge.

• If your baby needs special care (such as home oxygen, feeding tube or ostomy care), talk to your baby’s team about any supplies needed.

• Attend appointments with your pediatrician and any specialists referred to you by the NICU team (e.g., developmental therapists, cardiologists, or ophthalmologists).

• Be prepared to track growth, development, and feeding progress closely in the weeks following discharge.

• Your NICU team will let you know if you need to attend Neonatal Follow-up Clinic appointments.

• NICU graduates may have unique feeding needs, including specialized formulas or fortified breast milk.

• Follow the feeding plan provided by your primary care provider.

• Keep a feeding schedule and monitor your baby’s weight gain as advised by healthcare providers.

*This is a guideline. This is not medical advice. You should always consult your medical care provider*

• Recognize that leaving the NICU can be emotionally challenging; seek support from family, friends, or professional counselors.

• Join parent support groups, whether online or in-person, to connect with others who’ve had similar experiences. CPBF provides peer support and has their Parent Care Program.

• Ensure you get rest and help with household tasks so you can focus on bonding with your baby.

• Make sure you have a healthy diet, get adequate sleep, take time for yourself to shower and go for a walk.

• Ensure your baby is up to date on all recommended vaccinations.

• Practice good hygiene around your baby to reduce the risk of infections.

• Limit visitors, especially during flu and cold season, to protect your baby’s fragile immune system.

• Use our Letter to Family and Friends to help you manage guests.

• Talk to siblings about the baby’s needs and how they can help, using age-appropriate language.

• Teach them gentle ways to interact with the baby and set clear boundaries for their safety.

• A properly fitted car seat appropriate for premature or low-birth-weight babies. Many hospitals perform a car seat test before discharge.

• Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for your baby.

• Any paperwork provided by the NICU team, such as discharge instructions or follow-up care plans.