Empowering NICU Parents Podcast A Review of Venous and Arterial Lines Commonly Used in the NICU

There are many terms and acronyms commonly used in neonatology that most people are not familiar with. Even medical clinicians who are not familiar with the NICU, are unlikely to know about UACs or UVCs. And most NICU parents probably did not know that you can access a newborn’s venous and/or arterial system through their umbilicus until the providers explained the procedure to them.

For our 40th podcast episode, we reviewed some of those common NICU acronyms, but specifically the different venous and arterial line options commonly used in the NICU. These terms may be casually discussed during conversations between NICU clinicians, but it is important that as a parent, you understand the different peripheral and central lines infants in the NICU commonly need. Not only should you understand what they are, but you should also know when they are used or why one option is chosen over another. Additionally, it is imperative that you know the potential complications with each line, so you know what questions to ask when the NICU providers speak with you about each option.

Start listening and get ready to become empowered as we review peripheral and arterial lines common to the NICU!

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Empowering NICU Parents Podcast

A podcast specifically meant to educate and empower NICU parents as they endure their baby’s NICU journey. We provide you with tangible tips and support from my unique perspective as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) and a proud preemie Mama! Along with sharing answers to the NICU medical questions you have, Nicole will address and support you through the incredibly difficult emotional struggles that only a NICU parent can understand. Tune in and subscribe today!

To start 2024 out, our first episode focuses on marijuana use, its impact on pregnancy, the growing fetus and the child’s future development, as well as the implications of its use during breastfeeding.

Who would have thought that in 2024, we would be living in a time where marijuana use is so prominent and that it would be legal in 24 states as of January of 2024?!?

But, nonetheless, here we are! Because marijuana has been legalized in so many states, there are now false evolving perceptions on its general safety as well as its implications on the developing fetus and infant who are exposed to it either in utero or through breastmilk. In general, the perception of harm from marijuana is decreasing while the potency of marijuana is scarily increasing. Marijuana is the most widely used illegal drug during pregnancy in the United States. And, its use in gaining speed amongst all adult age groups, in both sexes, and in pregnant women.

For our 56th episode, I reviewed the most up-to-date literature and will share the findings from several studies that reveal both short and long-term negative effects on the pregnant mother and developing fetus if used during pregnancy, and its future implications on the growing infant, child, and their transition into the teenage years, and as an adult after prenatal exposure. I will also point out the general concentration of marijuana in breast milk if used by a nursing mother, as well as how long it stays in the breast milk, and how it may impact the exposed infant.

This episode is packed full of useful information and will be ideal for any healthcare worker or for family members and friends who care about a pregnant woman or nursing mother who is currently using marijuana and want to ensure that she is fully educated on the implications of its use on her growing fetus or infant. And last, but actually, the most important, I encourage ALL women who are either considering becoming pregnant or who are currently pregnant and use marijuana on a regular basis, to listen.

Although marijuana use is so prevelant, it is so crucial that we fully understand its potential impact on the fetus and the child’s future development if used during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
You will not want to miss this one!

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