When asked if she has any children, neonatal intensive care unit nurse Emily Wilk usually responds with, “Thousands, but I’ve given them all back to their mothers.”
Although her response is a little occupational humor that comes from taking care of new babies every day, she truly feels that each child and family she cares for is forever a part of her life.
“Being able to support the parents and assure them that their baby is still getting love while they can’t be there is such a key part of being a NICU nurse,” Emily said. “We take on the role of mom or dad while the parents cannot
be there to speak on behalf of their children.”
This became especially true in 2020 when the pandemic restricted families from having the resources and support system so many rely on during those long NICU days.
“The pandemic is especially frustrating for our families because in many cases, they don’t get to celebrate what is supposed to be the happiest time of their lives together,” Emily said. “The family dynamic has changed a lot and
it can be isolating and a bit lonely, especially for those families with long NICU stays.”
This is where Emily and her “NICU village” step in. Many of the babies they care for have complex medical needs that require care from nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists, physical and occupational therapists, nutritionists, social workers
and more. The nurses often identify these additional needs and connect parents with the right resources so they can take their baby home with a strong support system.
“We are fiercely protective of our patients,” she said. “We are literally their voices and we advocate for them as such.”
Emily wants people to realize that while every parent needs support when bringing a new baby home, it’s even more true for parents of premature babies. That’s why she believes days like World Prematurity Day on November 17 are necessary to
bring awareness.
“Our patients make their way into the world early and unexpectedly,” she said. “Babies born early are not just small – many have long-term complications that require a lot of physical and mental support.”
Emily said if you know someone with a preemie, understand that they are going through major stress and worry, and constantly think about all the complications that may occur. The phrase “everything is going to be ok” is often more isolating
for parents to hear than anything.
“My advice is to tell a NICU parent ‘I’m here for whatever support you need’ to allow them to have a sanctuary to vent their fears or cry the frustrations away,” she said.
For Emily, being a NICU nurse is so rewarding because the babies she cares for are such strong little fighters against the odds, and she gets to help them continue their fight.
“You become very connected to the families and we frequently get updates on many of our patients,” she said. “Christmas cards are very popular in the NICU!”