Expecting parents are often over-the-moon when learning they are soon to welcome a new baby into the world. Whether it is their first child, second or beyond, early education and prep make pregnancy, labor, and what’s to come simpler.
Prenatal education courses are a great way for parents, and sometimes even siblings, to learn important skills before baby arrives. Classes offered at Northern Nevada Sierra Medical Center include movement and positioning during labor, what to expect when you arrive at the hospital, pain management for labor, and postpartum expectations.
Life-saving Practices for Learning Infant and Child CPR
One of the most critical skills to learn is how to respond to an infant or child who is experiencing a cardiac or breathing emergency. The American Red Cross recommends the following steps for performing infant and child CPR.
Always remember to dial 9-1-1 to ensure emergency medical personnel can quickly get to your home or other location.
Performing CPR Step-by-Step:
- Place the child on their back on a flat, firm surface
- Give 30 compressions. Performing CPR on an infant versus a child is different, and you will need to learn the best hand or finger movements to ensure it is properly done. Visit the Red Cross’ website to review practices for different ages.
- Give 2 breaths.
- Continue giving sets of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until you notice a sign of life, an AED is ready to use, EMS personnel have arrived, or if the situation becomes unsafe to continue performing CPR.
Other Prenatal Education
In addition to learning life-saving skills, getting ready for labor and postpartum help mom and family safely return home. Whether you plan to labor in a labor tub, with or without medication, or with a certified doula, don’t skip these important tips.
- Discomfort is part of the labor process but rather than focus on it, we provide soothing options for moms too feel supported during labor. You may request to labor in a tub, have your favorite music playing, use an exercise ball for posture and sitting, or engage in massage. All of these methods provide relaxation and a soothing environment for mom.
- When you arrive to the hospital, you have likely already registered for your birth. So as you make your way to the maternity suites, ensure you communicate often with your nurse so they can support your birth plan and needs. If you have a partner or family member in the labor room, ask for their support and assistance too. Your room should be a place of comfort and love.
- While at the hospital, connect with your nurse about breastfeeding resources. Lactation consultants are often on hand to guide you, provide tips, and help with latching. These qualified nurses can help you in the first few days and provide consultation after you leave the hospital.
- Leaving the hospital is a big step for any family, post birth. Be sure to ask questions. Take notes about when to bring baby in for infant labs, find out from your OBGYN provider when to schedule a postpartum visit, and learn how to consult with lactation specialists in the first weeks and months of baby’s arrival. In addition, be sure your home is ready for baby including a safe place to sleep for mom and baby.
Fox 11's Taylor Winkel sits down with Meghan Alwin, a labor & delivery nurse at Northern Nevada Sierra Medical Center for more information.
To learn more about prenatal classes offered at Northern Nevada Sierra Medical Center, visit nnsierra.com.