Interventions In The NICU

There is a mismatch of the NICU and the infant due to the high-tech environment (Case-Smith, 2010). However, the NICU is the most appropriate setting for Jaylene but with environmental adaptations (Case-Smith, 2010). The NICU is not a traditional rehabilitative room for typical babies (Case-Smith, 2010). This unit supports infant born preterm to receive developmentally supportive care (Case-Smith, 2010). Developmental care includes environmental modification, changes in caregiving practices to increase family involvement (Case-Smith, 2010). The NICU has a highly specialized team of occupational therapist, and other neonatal developmental specialist for critical care (Case-Smith, 2010). The supportive interventions in the NICU are light and
sound modifications, therapeutic positioning, , nurturing touch, non-nutritive sucking, alteration of caregiver timing and handling techniques, preservation of sleep, and increased family involvement, all of which Jaylene cannot receive at home (Case-Smith, 2010). As occupational therapists we must do no harm and to ensure that jaylene receives the most appropriate care. Jaylene must remain in the NICU until she is developmentally able to go home with her parents.