233: From NICU Nurse to NICU Mom: Premature Twins born at 33 weeks – Brittney’s Story

In this episode host Katie Taylor speaks with a NICU nurse and mother, Brittney, who shares her unique perspective on navigating the healthcare system from both sides; a NICU nurse and NICU mama. Brittany reflects on her journey as a NICU nurse who then became a NICU mom of twins, describing how her experiences inspired her to write a NICU-themed children’s book and launch a publishing company. Her story highlights the emotional, mental, and logistical challenges of parenting in a NICU environment and how she uses her experiences to support families facing similar journeys.

Key Insights and Lessons:

• Value of Empathy and Shared Experience: Brittney’s journey as a NICU mom brought a new level of empathy to her work, allowing her to connect deeply with the parents she now supports.
• Empowering NICU Parents: Brittney emphasizes the importance of empowering parents with hands-on involvement, helping them gain confidence in their caregiving roles despite medical complexities.
• Advocating for Comfort in the NICU: Encouraging parents to bring personal items, create a nurturing space, and advocate for their emotional needs helps make the NICU environment feel more like home.
• Navigating the Unknowns of NICU Life: For Brittney, the hardest part of the NICU experience was the slow, unpredictable progress toward discharge, which she now prepares her patients’ families for, emphasizing resilience and patience.

Resources and Tips:

When parents feel empowered, everyone wins – kids thrive and the care team excels!

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