- [MUSIC PLAYING] When the time comes for your baby to leave the NICU, it's natural to feel excited and a little nervous. The care team will make sure that you and your baby are ready. Babies are usually ready to leave when they can keep a normal body temperature in a crib without a warmer, have normal heart rates and oxygen levels, and are feeding well and gaining weight. You'll be ready, too, by learning how to care for your baby, including feeding, soothing, bathing, diapering, and taking a temperature. If your baby will need medicines at home, the care team will teach you how to give them. Find out what each medicine is for, when and how to give it, and how to store it the right way. You'll learn what to do in case of an emergency, and you may be taught how to perform infant CPR. If your baby needs medical equipment at home, you'll be trained on how to use and care for it. Ask questions and practice until you're comfortable. The NICU care team or social worker will arrange for any equipment and supplies needed. They'll explain how to reorder and whom to call with any issues. Before leaving the hospital, your baby will probably have a few routine tests, like a hearing test and any scheduled vaccines. Follow-up appointments with specialists and your pediatrician will be made. Any visits needed from a home care nurse, therapist, or aide will also be arranged. You may need to bring your baby's car seat into the NICU. A member of the care team will check the car seat fit as well as monitor your baby's breathing, heart rate, and oxygen levels while in it. This is done to make sure your baby will be OK in this position while traveling. At home, make sure your baby has a safe place to sleep. Your baby should not sleep in bed with you or with anyone else. The mattress should be firm and fit snugly. Cover with a fitted sheet and no other bedding. Do not used mattress toppers, pillows, blankets, or bumpers. Keep stuffed animals and other toys out of the crib. These can cover a baby's mouth and nose and lead to suffocation. Your baby always should be placed on the back to sleep. This is the safest position because it helps prevent the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS. Just like in the NICU, you'll need to avoid germs at home. Limit visitors at first and avoid crowded places. Everyone should wash their hands before touching the baby. Sick visitors should stay away, and no one should ever smoke around your baby. Your baby's homecoming is a milestone to celebrate. By learning all you can and practicing what you'll need to do, you'll feel confident and ready for this next step with your baby.