A baby nurse is the most widely used and well-known term that usually refers to providers who care for newborns from birth. However, it is essential to recognize that legal providers cannot use the term “nurse” to market themselves unless they are state-licensed registered nurses. It can be confusing and misleading for parents.
If the provider claims to be a baby nurse and not a registered nurse, they must disclose that they are not licensed as a registered nurse in that state. A more appropriate modern title for the baby nurse is neonatal care specialist or you can call it newborn care specialist.
6 things everyone should know
Familiarize yourself with the experience and qualifications of the vendor you are hiring and make sense of it.
This is because baby nurses and neonatal care specialists in the United States do not have a nationally recognized governing body. However, several private organizations certify neonatal care specialists. This means that someone has created a set of requirements that a person must meet to be marketed as a certified neonatal care specialist.
Your goals should be determined
Before hiring a baby nurse, you and your partner should discuss what is most important to you and your partner and what you want to achieve while you are with her.
Decide on a budget.
Fees charged by each infant nurse and neonatal care professional vary from place to place and the number of years of experience. Location, age, type of experience, and whether you are caring for an only child, multiples, or at-risk infants such as premature babies are some parameters considered before generating an invoice. For example, a newborn care specialist who is a registered nurse is probably best for babies who need medical care.
If possible, meet the candidate in person.
Conduct at least one interview via Skype or FaceTime. It is essential to know how they are and their personalities. This is especially true if the baby nurse is with you for an extended period. If you’ve spoken to more than one person and your favorite is across the country, offer to fly to them for an in-person interview. It’s worth knowing that they are a good fit for your family.
Your newborn care professional or baby nurse may require a contract and/or advance payment to secure services.
I can’t say that all or most of her NCS or baby nurses use contracts or retainers, but many do, especially those who have been in business for some time or have completed training.
- The contract protects both parties and clearly outlines everyone’s expectations, timeframes, fees, and responsibilities. Good contracts help avoid “what if” scenarios.
- Newborn care specialists and baby nurses can work with multiple families simultaneously.
- Contracts help us know when we are guaranteed supply from the provider and when the provider’s work is guaranteed.
- The contract gives the expectant family peace of mind by ensuring they are provided for a specified period.
Allow time and ask for a letter of recommendation
Start searching when you think you may have to hire a baby nurse. You cannot decide how long it can take to find the person you think will be capable for your baby. It’s also not uncommon for baby nurses and newborn care specialists to be booked six to seven months in advance. Investigation can take months, so it’s better to start early. Also, asking for a letter of recommendation will show how experienced they are and what services they can offer the best.
Conclusion
Choosing the best help for your baby is the utmost priority and so for fulfilling that, you should investigate thoroughly the person you are going to appoint.
