PRECIOUS neonatal babies in Cairns can put more energy into growing, rather than keeping warm, thanks to generous community support.
Two Cosytherm mattresses have been bought by the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, thanks to generous donations from the Cairns Pregnancy and Baby Expo.
Cairns Hospital Special Care Nursery Nurse Unit Manager Jonelle Mayers said babies can use a lot of energy trying to maintain their body temperature but the new mattresses do that for them.
“That means they can put more energy into growing, which ultimately helps them grow more quickly so we can discharge them home to their beautiful families,” Mrs Mayers said.
“The Cosytherm creates a warm environment for a newborn in an open cot. Parents love the fact that their baby is more accessible in the open cot and nurses love it because they can keep a baby warm safely without having to place them in an isolette. It is a very family friendly way to keep a baby warm with easy access for parents,” she said.
Cairns Pregnancy and Baby Expo organiser Alison Cupitt was thrilled to see the Cosytherms in action, as a result of the last three years events.
“As a former paediatrician myself, I know what a difference these make and it is truly wonderful to see the results of all our hard work, helping out these tiny babies,” Ms Cupitt said.
Cairns Hospital’s Special Care Nursery can take babies that are more than 1000 grams, or 28 weeks’, and they have more than 1000 admissions a year.
Babies can transition to normal open cots once they reach 1500 grams, with all other factors being considered.
The 2020 Cairns Pregnancy and Baby Expo will be held on Sunday, February 23, at the Cairns Pullman International. For more information, visit: HERE.
Photo: Cairns Hospital Special Care Nursery Nurse Unit Manager Jonelle Mayers, Foundation interim CEO Tony Williamson and Cairns Pregnancy and Baby Expo organiser Alison Cupitt meet with baby Reegan, who is currently using a cosytherm.
