Surviving NICU Part 3: The stages of baby beds in NICU

Naomi in an open-bed warmer

When in the NICU any parent will soon realize that there are many different kinds of cribs. A baby can start in just about any level of bed when arriving in NICU, but every baby has to be in an open crib before they get to go home. Here is a brief description of each bed in the order in which a baby progresses through them.

When a baby is admitted to the NICU, they will be placed on an open-bed warmer. This is so the hospital staff can observe and perform necessary tests and procedures. While a baby is on the warmer, they will only wear a diaper and nothing else. A sensor will be taped to the baby’s abdomen to help regulate the temperature. The staff will then determine which bed baby should proceed to by how well they are doing.

The next bed a baby progresses to after an open-bed warmer is normally a Giraffe bed. They are designed specifically for premature infants. These beds are modern day transformers being able to change from an open-bed warmer to an incubator and back again with the simple press of a button. These beds again control the environment and help monitor the baby closely.

 Naomi in an incubator

The next move is to an incubator. They are also used to provide a warm constant regulated environment. A baby’s incubator will be gradually decreased in temperature until the baby is able to maintain a healthy body temperature on their own. The temperature will be turned down on a scheduled pace and at small increments. Once a constant body temperature is accomplished, the baby will be moved to the next bed; an open crib.

A baby is on the home stretch when they are moved to an open crib. Some hospitals require a baby to weigh approximately four pounds before they are moved. This is because most babies cannot independently maintain a normal temperature without the added weight. Fat keeps babies warm. That is not to say that smaller babies have never done it. The baby will need to have a constantly good temperature and be feeding well. Swaddling blankets are great for helping a premature and small baby maintain body temperature and keep them content. Then it is homeward bound. 

Lila in an open crib

If at any time in the NICU you feel your baby’s progression is questionable, ask what is expected and what can be done. Every hospital is a little different. 
 

Stages of beds:

1. Open-Bed Warmer
2. Giraffe Bed
3. Incubator
4. Open Crib

Other articles in this series:

Surviving NICU part 1: An introduction
Surviving NICU part 2: Feeding your baby
Surviving NICU part 3: Stages of beds in NICU
Surviving NICU part 4: What is Bradycardia or Apnea?
Surviving NICU part 5: My baby needs O2
Surviving NICU part 6: Monitors
Surviving NICU part 7: Aiva's stay in NICU
Surviving NICU part 8: Caroline and Sophie
Surviving NICU part 9: Jaundice
Surviving NICU part 10: Helping older siblings
Surviving NICU part 11: Blood work and IV therapy

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NICU support for Evansville area parent 

Local Hospitals with NICU:

The Women's Hospital at Gateway

St. Mary's Women's Hospital