NICU Heroes Podcast

S5 E32: PTSD in the NICU: The Trauma is Real ft. Dr. Tiffany Gladdis

Guest: Dr. Tiffany Gladdis Licensed Clinical Psychologist   In this episode: Explain what trauma-informed care is. List three signs or symptoms of anxiety/PTSD that might warrant a consultation with a mental health professional. Share how NICU professionals can identify triggers in their patient's family members and how they can acknowledge them. This episode is eligible for CEUs. Visit https://handtohold.org/resources/podcasts/nicu-heroes/ to complete the questionnaire. It is the ...

S5 E31: Will This Baby Thrive Outside the NICU ft. Dr. Kristine Tolentino-Plata

Guest: Dr. Kristine Tolentino-Plata Senior Child Development Specialist    In this episode: Describe the purpose of the Bayley developmental assessment and at what age(s) it is typically performed after discharge from the NICU. List three ways a NICU follow-up clinic can reduce barriers to care and social needs for families after a NICU stay. Share one area of research that is promising for child development neurodevelopment. This episode is eligible for CEUs. Visit https://handt...

S5 E30: All the Time You Need: Helping Grieving Patients ft. J.S. Park

Guest: JS Park Chaplain & Author   In this episode: Explain how a hospital chaplain's role differs from a pastor or worship leader. List three ways a patient may react to grief or difficult news from a medical professional. Name three things a NICU professional can do to make a family feel seen on a difficult day. This episode is eligible for CEUs. Visit https://handtohold.org/resources/podcasts/nicu-heroes/ to complete the questionnaire. It is the sole responsibility of the indivi...

S5 E29: Perinatal Mental Health: How to Start the Conversation ft. Dr. Stephanie Waggel

Guest: Dr. Stephanie Waggel Perinatal Psychiatrist   In this episode: List two things that make a patient susceptible to PMADS (perinatal mood and anxiety disorders). Describe two treatment options for PMADS. Explain what makes the drug, Zuranolone, so effective for treating postpartum depression. This episode is eligible for CEUs. Visit https://handtohold.org/resources/podcasts/nicu-heroes/ to complete the questionnaire. It is the sole responsibility of the individual to verify if...

NICU Heroes Podcast Trailer

S5 E28: Understanding the Pediatric Heart ft. Dr. Daniel Penny

Guest: Dr. Daniel Penny Chief, Pediatric Cardiology Professor and Chief of Pediatric Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine Co-Director, Texas Children’s Heart Center Professor and Chief of Pediatric Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine   In this episode: List at least one reason why neonates are more susceptible to congenital heart defects. Name two advancements in pediatric cardiac care in the last decade. Explain the most common symptoms of two of the three heart conditio...

Episode 27: Preeclampsia, What You May Not Know ft. Dr. David Berry

Dr. David Berry Maternal Fetal Medicine Physician   In this episode: Name three signs of preeclampsia Explain what "new sire" syndrome means in relation to preeclampsia List two common clinical signs/symptoms of a baby in the NICU if his/her mom had preeclampsia This episode is eligible for CEUs. Visit https://handtohold.org/resources/podcasts/nicu-heroes/ to complete the questionnaire.   Connect with Dr. Berry: Website: https://women.texaschildrens.org/program/maternal-feta...

Episode 26: Preventing Burnout Among NICU Professionals ft. Dr. Susan Landers

Dr. Susan Landers Neonatologist and Author Disclosure: The speaker in this interview is the author of a book. This affiliation does not influence the presentation's educational content value or impact its CEU eligibility.   In this episode: List three characteristics of burned out NICU nurses. Describe two solutions to combating burnout.   This episode is eligible for CEUs. Visit https://handtohold.org/resources/podcasts/nicu-heroes/ to complete the questionnaire.   Article ...

Episode 25: Somatic Trauma Therapy ft. Parijat Deshpande

Parijat Deshpande Somatic Trauma Therapist   Disclaimer: The speaker in this interview discusses various therapy options to treat and heal trauma. These views and recommendations are the speaker's own and should not be considered professional medical advice or endorsement.    In this episode: List two things a woman can do to minimize the trauma she might experience during pregnancy, delivery or birth. Describe the somatic trauma therapy cycle   This episode is eligible for CE...

Episode 24: Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP), Causes, Treatment & Research ft. Dr. Olachi Mezu-Ndubuisi

Dr. Olachi Mezu-Ndubuisi, MD, OD, Neonatologist & Licensed Optometrist McPherson Eye Research Institute’s Retina Research Foundation Edwin and Dorothy Gamewell Professor; Associate Professor, Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics; Flaum Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester Disclaimer: The speaker in this interview discusses off-label medications and investigational treatments. These views and recommendations are the speaker's own and should not ...

Episode 23: How To Engage Child Life in the NICU ft. Katie Taylor

Katie Taylor, Co-founder and CEO, Child Life On Call Disclosure: The speaker in this interview is the owner and CEO of a company providing services to NICUs and families. This affiliation does not influence the presentation's educational content value or impact its CEU eligibility.   In this episode: Explain at least three ways that the role of a child life specialist differs from a nurse, and when to refer a parent for these services List two activities/strategies a child life spec...

Episode 22: Best Practices for Caring for Preemies ft. Dr. Anup Katheria

Dr. Anup Katheria, Neonatologist, Sharp Community Medical Group and Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women & Newborns Director, Neonatal Research Institute and the Nemeth NICU Follow-Up Clinic Principal Investigator, several clinical trials   In this episode, we: Share several clinical trials being conducted by Dr. Katheria. Describe how Dr. Katheria's research is promoting placental transfusion. Share how some countries are conducting promising research that can improve the long-ter...

Episode 21: Supporting Dads and Their Mental Health in the NICU

Guests: This is a panel from Hand to Hold's 2022 NICU conference with three dads.   In this episode: Three dads share how the NICU impacted their own mental health They offer resources and suggestions on how to care for your partner and yourself during a NICU stay This episode is NOT eligible for CEUs.   The NICU is hard. We're here to help. Hand to Hold is a national nonprofit dedicated to providing neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) parents with personalized emotional supp...

Episode 20: Communicating with Parents During Stressful Times

Guest: Sue Hall MD, MSW, Retired Neonatologist, My NICU Network-My Perinatal Network Wakako Eklund, DNP, APRN, NNP-BC, FAANP, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Pediatrix Medical Group of TN In this episode: Integrate parents as an essential part of their baby’s care team Operate NICUs in a way that attends to parents as patients, in addition to baby Evaluate how communication with parents impacts their mental health and NICU experience. This episode is eligible for CEUs. Visit https:/...

Episode 19: Tiny Humans, Big Lessons by Sue Ludwig

Sue Ludwig OTR/L, CNT shares more about her book Tiny Humans, Big Lessons: How the NICU Taught Me to Live With Energy, Intention, and Purpose. Through real patient stories, reflection, and practical tools, Ludwig reveals how, by following the lead of those in her care, she found her way to a more vibrant, purposeful, and impactful life than she ever imagined possible―and how you can, too. This episode is not eligible for CEUs.  -  The NICU is hard. We’re here to help.  Hand to Hol...

Episode 18: The Benefits of Reading Aloud in the NICU

In this episode: Guest: Dawn Yu Renwick, NICU Nurse, Author/ Illustrator of "Dog Coats What are the benefits of reading aloud in the NICU for your baby? How does reading aloud to your baby in the NICU benefit you as a parent? As a NICU parent, how do I overcome the intimidation of reading aloud in the NICU? Purchase your copy of Dog Coats on Amazon here. More information about read-aloud in NICUs at babieswithbooks.org This episode is not eligible for CEUs.  -  The NICU is ha...

Episode 17: Grief's Tasks

Guest: Becca Van Tassel, LCSW Why Becca decided to specialize in grief and loss in her career as a counselor Why is processing the pain of grief so difficult? The difference between depression and grief What can couples do in order to move through the grief process together? How can parents help their children process grief? How can we memorialize those we have lost? How to deal with the guilt associated with grief This episode is not eligible for CEUs.  Content Warning: This ...

Episode 16: The Risk of Postpartum Depression (PPD) for Black Mothers

Nakeenya Wilson, of Black Mamas ATX, discusses her own traumatic birth experience and how that led to PTSD and PPD. She talks about how she got involved with Black Mamas ATX and the services the nonprofit offers. She also discusses the statistics surrounding black mothers and PPD.  This episode is not eligible for CEUs.  - The NICU is hard. We’re here to help.  Hand to Hold® is a national nonprofit dedicated to providing neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) parents with personalized e...

Episode 15: The Importance of Maternal Mental Health

Kelli welcomes guest, Lexi Losch, MA, LPC, NCC, discuss why maternal mental health matters, and the difference between “baby blues” and PPD. Lexi shares the symptoms of PPD, who is most likely to experience PPD, and the importance of addressing your physical needs as a new mom. In addition, Kelli and Lexi share resources for anyone who may be struggling.  This episode is not eligible for CEUs.  - The NICU is hard. We’re here to help.  Hand to Hold® is a national nonprofit dedicated t...

NICU Heroes Episode 14: The Importance of the Gut Microbiome

In this episode, Kelli and guests discuss the gut microbiome and why it's important. They also talk about pathogenic bacteria and how probiotics can aid the gut, as well as how all of this relates to premature infants.     

Episode 14: The Importance of the Gut Microbiome

In this episode, Kelli and guests discuss the gut microbiome and why it's important. They also talk about pathogenic bacteria and how probiotics can aid the gut, as well as how all of this relates to premature infants.     

Episode 13: A NICU Medical Professional in the Digital Age

Terry Johnson discusses how the access to information has changed through the years and how that affects a NICU medical professional. She also speaks about the transition NICU nurses have had to make in using more technology at the bedside.

NICU Heroes Episode 13: A NICU Medical Professional in the Digital Age

Terry Johnson discusses how the access to information has changed through the years and how that affects a NICU medical professional. She also speaks about the transition NICU nurses have had to make in using more technology at the bedside.

Episode 12: A NICU Professional's Response to COVID-19

Lori and Kelli discuss the many ways COVID-19 can impact NICU professionals and the importance of listening to each other as a means of support. They also talk about how to cope with the stress and trauma of working in the NICU during COVID-19.

NICU Heroes Episode 12: A NICU Professional's Response to COVID-19

Lori and Kelli discuss the many ways COVID-19 can impact NICU professionals and the importance of listening to each other as a means of support. They also talk about how to cope with the stress and trauma of working in the NICU during COVID-19.

NICU Heroes Episode 11: Avoiding Risks for SIDS & SUID

Kelli and Barb Himes discuss what First Candle is and its services. They also talk about the difference between SIDS and SUID, and the risks involved for premature babies with each syndrome. Barb discusses the AAP recommendations for safe sleep and the importance and benefit of breastfeeding your preemie. 

Episode 11: Avoiding Risks for SIDS & SUID

Kelli and Barb Himes discuss what First Candle is and its services. They also talk about the difference between SIDS and SUID, and the risks involved for premature babies with each syndrome. Barb discusses the AAP recommendations for safe sleep and the importance and benefit of breastfeeding your preemie. 

NICU Heroes Episode 10: Self-Care in the NICU

Kelli and Cheryl discuss what secondary trauma is and how it can affect NICU professionals. They also talk about the importance of nutrition and hydration for NICU professionals and how to recognize burnout and combat it.

Episode 10: Self-Care in the NICU

Kelli and Cheryl discuss what secondary trauma is and how it can affect NICU professionals. They also talk about the importance of nutrition and hydration for NICU professionals and how to recognize burnout and combat it.

Episode 9: Developmental Diapering

Kelli discusses with Sue Ludwig, Elizabeth Drake, and Joanne Kuller what developmental diapering is and why it's important. They talk about the five areas of focus when changing a preemie's diaper and how each of these areas can help a baby's development.

NICU Heroes Episode 9: Developmental Diapering

Kelli discusses with Sue Ludwig, Elizabeth Drake, and Joanne Kuller what developmental diapering is and why it's important. They talk about the five areas of focus when changing a preemie's diaper and how each of these areas can help a baby's development.

NICU Heroes Episode 8: Avoiding Nurse Burnout in the NICU

NICU nurses, Rhonda Reed and Jennifer Miller, discuss their own experiences with burnout while working in the NICU. They talk about the signs and symptoms of burnout to look out for, as well as how nurses can combat it. Kelli also asks them for tips on how to cope with loss in the NICU and how nurses can implement good nutrition and exercise in their daily routines.

Episode 8: Avoiding Nurse Burnout in the NICU

NICU nurses, Rhonda Reed and Jennifer Miller, discuss their own experiences with burnout while working in the NICU. They talk about the signs and symptoms of burnout to look out for, as well as how nurses can combat it. Kelli also asks them for tips on how to cope with loss in the NICU and how nurses can implement good nutrition and exercise in their daily routines.

NICU Heroes Episode 7: Supporting Dads in the NICU

Adam Busby recounts his experience of finding out he and his wife, Danielle, were going to have quintuplets. He discusses that journey and his experience in the NICU. Kelli and he also talk about his Adam's struggle with depression, anxiety, and PTSD after the birth of his daughters, and Adam offers advice to other dads in the NICU.

Episode 7: Supporting Dads in the NICU

Adam Busby recounts his experience of finding out he and his wife, Danielle, were going to have quintuplets. He discusses that journey and his experience in the NICU. Kelli and he also talk about his Adam's struggle with depression, anxiety, and PTSD after the birth of his daughters, and Adam offers advice to other dads in the NICU.

NICU Heroes Episode 6: Modeling Motherhood

Kelli and Natalie discuss the opioid epidemic and how it has affected NICU moms. Natalie talks about the importance of showing these moms compassion and how NICU nurses can model motherhood while working. 

Episode 6: Modeling Motherhood

Kelli and Natalie discuss the opioid epidemic and how it has affected NICU moms. Natalie talks about the importance of showing these moms compassion and how NICU nurses can model motherhood while working. 

NICU Heroes Episode 5: Overcoming Communication Barriers of Family Centered Care

Dr. Loraine Dickey speaks about starting the Narrative Initiative and how it enables people to connect through their stories. She and Kelli discuss family centered care and how it can be used in the NICU. Dr. Dickey talks about how NICU professionals can best communicate with families and how it's important to focus on the process, not the outcome. 

Episode 5: Overcoming Communication Barriers of Family Centered Care

Dr. Loraine Dickey speaks about starting the Narrative Initiative and how it enables people to connect through their stories. She and Kelli discuss family centered care and how it can be used in the NICU. Dr. Dickey talks about how NICU professionals can best communicate with families and how it's important to focus on the process, not the outcome. 

NICU Heroes Episode 4: Helping Mothers Bond with their Babies in the NICU

Kelli, Jasmine, and Kara talk about Family Nurture Intervention and the importance of bonding with babies in the NICU. They discuss how families can become emotionally connected to their baby in the NICU.

Episode 4: Helping Mothers Bond with their Babies in the NICU

Kelli, Jasmine, and Kara talk about Family Nurture Intervention and the importance of bonding with babies in the NICU. They discuss how families can become emotionally connected to their baby in the NICU.

NICU Heroes Episode 3: Nothing About Us Without Us

Darlene talks about being a Family Consultant at CHOP. She also discusses CHOP's Family Partner Program and the importance of the NICU professional looking at their cases through a family lens. Darlene explains the importance of Language of Caring and how that can be used in the NICU. Kelli talks to Keira about her experience of having triplets and how that led her to founding the Preemie Parent Alliance.

Episode 3: Nothing About Us Without Us

Darlene talks about being a Family Consultant at CHOP. She also discusses CHOP's Family Partner Program and the importance of the NICU professional looking at their cases through a family lens. Darlene explains the importance of Language of Caring and how that can be used in the NICU. Kelli talks to Keira about her experience of having triplets and how that led her to founding the Preemie Parent Alliance.

NICU Heroes Episode 2: Psychosocial Support of NICU Families

Kelli and Dr. Sue Hall discuss the Interdisciplinary Recommendations for Psychosocial Support of NICU Parents and how those guidelines came into existence. They talk about how the mental health of NICU families is just as important as the physical aspect. Dr. Hall what NICU professionals can do to help alleviate and/or prevent anxiety, depression, and PTSD in NICU families.

Episode 2: Psychosocial Support of NICU Families

Kelli and Dr. Sue Hall discuss the Interdisciplinary Recommendations for Psychosocial Support of NICU Parents and how those guidelines came into existence. They talk about how the mental health of NICU families is just as important as the physical aspect. Dr. Hall what NICU professionals can do to help alleviate and/or prevent anxiety, depression, and PTSD in NICU families.

NICU Heroes Episode 1: A Life of Purpose

Kelli speaks about her own experience in the NICU and how that led her to founding Hand to Hold. She talks about her journey with anxiety, depression, and PTSD and how that inspired her to help other NICU families. She discusses the resources that are available to NICU families and how those resources can help NICU families in need.

Episode 1: A Life of Purpose

Kelli speaks about her own experience in the NICU and how that led her to founding Hand to Hold. She talks about her journey with anxiety, depression, and PTSD and how that inspired her to help other NICU families. She discusses the resources that are available to NICU families and how those resources can help NICU families in need.