Premature Infant: Safe Travel With Your Baby

← Back to Library

Top of the page

Premature Infant: Safe Travel With Your Baby

Overview

After your infant is discharged from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), you may need to take special precautions for car travel.

In most cases the safest way for a healthy premature baby to travel is by car seat. But some premature infants cannot sit in a car seat without slouching over, which interferes with their breathing and oxygen supply. Some premature infants may need a special bed for the car. Ask your doctor what is best for your baby.

Be sure to buy a car seat that is recommended for your baby's weight and height. Follow the car seat maker's instructions for installing the seat. Keep your baby in the back, middle seat of the car. This is the safest place in the car.

If your infant is sent home with oxygen, a monitor, or other supportive technology, secure the equipment under a vehicle seat or on the floor during travel.

Credits

Current as of: October 24, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 24, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

Explore the Full Health and Wellness Library

Looking for easy to understand information you can trust? The health and wellness content is created and reviewed by clinicians to ensure accuracy. We suggest you use this resource as research for conversations with your doctor or those you care about.

Explore the Library

Community and Health Events

We regularly host free events to help you stay informed, connected, and inspired. We offer local in-person gatherings and virtual sessions you can attend from the comfort of home. View our calendar for all upcoming events.

Explore all Events