Page 64 - What to Expect

Going home

When does Plunket get involved?

Visiting the Plunket nurse is voluntary. Your areas Plunket nurse usually
comes and does one home visit once you are discharged from the
homecare team. After that you will normally visit the Plunket nurse at your
local Plunket clinic. For some people these visits may not seem as serious
as the check-ups at the hospital, but Plunket is a good regular weight,
height and advice station. Plunket nurses have a wealth of knowledge
and practical advice regarding the health and well-being of babies and
children.

Plunket can be especially useful for first-time mums as they organise play
groups for babies born around the same time. These groups can be good
for you too, especially if this is your first baby. At first these groups may
seem a bit harrowing, especially when you have such a small older baby
compared to the others in the group. But, remember that your baby isn’t
going to be two kilos forever, and if you strike a good group you may
continue to meet when baby becomes a toddler, school age or older!
It is good for your baby to spend time with other babies his age, even if
they aren’t the same size - yet! Ask your Plunket nurse about facilities like
Karitane Units and new mothers groups.

What is a neuro-developmental therapist?

The visiting neuro-developmental therapist (the lady with the toys and
exercises) will routinely visit most babies born under 1250gms of weight
or those born before 30 weeks gestation. She may also visit other babies
who are heavier in weight but have had problems that may affect their
development.

Visits will be at your home and the therapist will advise you on what
developmental milestones to look for. She will also give you suggestions
and ideas on how to stimulate your baby’s progress in all areas of
development. This is an early intervention service for you and your baby
which is available up to the age of five years.

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