- You are part of your baby’s care team. Our goal is for you to be as informed about your baby’s goals, needs, and options, as the medical team. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Each of your questions is important. You may need to ask questions more than one time to feel you understand. Your team understands this and is prepared to support you.
- It is our responsibility to give you information in your language and in a way that you understand. Please let your team know if you need help understanding the information that we are giving you.
- Let others support you. Identify people, like family and friends, who you trust and who you can talk to about what you are going through.
- Talk to your Social Worker about your concerns, fears, and feelings. It is expected that you will struggle emotionally at a time like this. Your Social Worker can help you with coping strategies and can connect you with resources to support your mental health if desired.
- Talk to your team about any important cultural practices or beliefs you have and how they relate to the care of your child.
- Sometimes family members disagree on what decisions to make for their child. This can be especially true during times of great stress. Each person has a point of view and that is okay. Your Social Worker can help you talk things out and problem solve to try and find a solution that works for everyone.
- Be kind to yourself. Even though you may not feel like it, remember to eat meals and get rest regularly. This experience can be very exhausting. Remember it is best for your child for you to stay as healthy as possible, both emotionally and physically. You are making important choices for your child, and that is difficult without sleep or on an empty stomach.
The guidance on this page has been clinically reviewed by CHOC pediatric experts.
The contents of this webpage, including text, graphics, audio files, and videos (“Materials”), are for your general information only. The Materials are not intended to substitute qualified professional or medical advice, diagnoses, or treatments. CHOC does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, or other information that may be mentioned on or linked to this webpage. Always call your physician or another qualified health provider if you have any questions or problems. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the nearest emergency department, or call 911.
For more health information for your family visit health.choc.org
