Baby Nurses - What Are They and What Are the Benefits of Hiring One?

A typical newborn/infant is awake and in need of care for several hours every night. In order for mothers to properly recuperate, and for families to ease the transition into life with their newest member, some families choose to employ a baby nurse or newborn specialist.

Traditionally, overnight nanny responsibilities have been held by women with the title of baby nurse. By today's modern standards however, this person is a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Further, in some states the term "baby nurse" can only be used legally if the person practicing this profession is an actual RN or LPN. For individuals who have extensive experience in newborn care, but do not hold medical licenses, the term "newborn specialist" can be used.

A baby nurse performs all tasks related to baby's well being including feeding, diapering, and soothing the child through the night. For breastfeeding mothers, the caregiver will bring the child to mother, but will then provide all other care for baby by burping, changing and easing baby back to sleep. Baby nurses are also required to keep the child's room orderly and clean, but do not perform household duties.

During the first nights home with baby, a baby nurse benefits the entire family. Knowing that baby is in capable, nurturing hands just as s/he was in the hospital nursery, mothers get the deep restorative sleep their bodies need to recuperate from the emotional and physical demands of childbirth. For fathers and partners, who in the vast majority of homes can not take significant time off from work, baby nurses allow for proper rest before starting back in the workplace. Older siblings who may not yet understand how the new family member could affect them, also benefit. Parents can be 100% available to comfort the older children when they inevitably wake up during the night as they adjust to life with the new baby.

And for the babies themselves, professional care allows their needs to be met quickly, easily and lovingly.

Whether families opt for service a few nights a week, or a month or more, the most important thing a baby nurse provides is deep, restorative sleep. This is crucial for all parents, whether they work outside the home or are a stay at home parent. A good night's sleep allows families to enjoy and cherish their time, rather than just "get through the day."