Due to the methamphetamines that little Emma was exposed to in utero, her little bottom is very excoriated from the caustic chemicals now being excreted via the stool. We must keep the area very clean at all times and to make sure to use methods to soothe the burning pain.
One of the most rewarding times at PICC is when a graduate returns for a visit to see where their story began. It is touching to see the smile on their faces as they meet the nurses who provided their care and heartwarming for us to see how well they are doing. Victor, bearing gifts, is peeking at the baby who is sleeping in the same crib he once slept in.
Just six hours old, Charity arrived at the center already in the beginning stages of withdrawal. Only time will tell the extent of the withdrawal that she will be going through. Our goal is to keep her as comfortable as possible as we watch for the signs and symptoms of the most predoninate drugs this little one was exposed to.
When Joseph came to us, he was a healthy and beautiful looking infant. But, because of his pre-natal exposure to cocaine, he would not wake to feed and - when awake - he couldnt eat. This is one of our greatest challenges; teaching these little ones how to eat.
These precious twin boys came to us fighting their pre-natal exposure to opiates. Otherwise very healthy, our challenge, early on, was to keep them comfortable while supporting them through their excruciating withdrawal.
JeMar has been with us for 7 weeks and is ready to go home to his family. Having been exposed to multiple drugs, he is now waking to feed and is taking his required amount of formula on his own.