The fear I felt when I learned my son would come home on oxygen was palpable. After spending 101 days in the NICU, the thought of managing his oxygen needs at home overwhelmed me. But today, I can confidently say it’s been worth every challenge. Our son is thriving, and while he still relies on oxygen five months post-discharge, his health in every other aspect is remarkable. Along this journey, we’ve gathered tips and tricks that have made all the difference, and we’re eager to share them with you.

1. Coban: A Game-Changer
   • One of the first lessons we learned was the importance of Coban (This stuff is life changing!!!). While we were accustomed to the beeping in the NICU, the sensitivity of the oxygen sensor at home was a different story. Wrapping our son’s foot with 10-12 inches of Coban helped stabilize the sensor, reducing false alarms. Beware of velcro oxygen sensors; they tend to be even more sensitive.
2. Clothing Choices Matter
   • Invest in clothing with two-way zippers or those that zip from the top down. For newborns, gowns are a blessing—they accommodate the oxygen sensor cord without the need for modifications. Here are some brands we swear by:
     • Carters 2 way zippers
     • Little Sleepies
     • Target – Cloud Island Sleep N’ Play
     • Bamboo Gowns
3. Optimize Oxygen Tubing Length
   • Most supply companies provide 50 feet of tubing, but using all of it isn’t advisable. Limiting the tubing length to 25 feet can prevent unnecessary increases in oxygen requirements and expedite the transition to room air.
4. Mastering Fixation Techniques
   • Strategic Placement
     • Position the fixation stickers closer to your baby’s ears and when placing new ones place them closer toward their nose to minimize skin damage.
   • Peel with Care
     • Before applying the fixation stickers, peel back the clear portion to prevent accidentally ripping off the adhesive attached to your baby’s delicate skin.
5. Socks for Stability
   • If your little one is a bundle of energy, consider wrapping the oxygen sensor in Coban and then covering it with a sock. This extra layer helps stabilize the cord, reducing movement-induced beeping.

Navigating life with a NICU graduate on oxygen at home may seem daunting, but with the right strategies and adjustments, it’s entirely manageable. Remember, each milestone achieved is a testament to your resilience and your baby’s strength. We’re rooting for you on this journey!