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Article Alert: Inside Baby ER

© Eric Jordan Jensen

Have you ever wondered exactly what a neonatalogist does? Have you ever thought about what went on in the NICU when you weren't there? If you have, you may want to read an article recently published in the October 2000 Reader's Digest. The article is actually an excerpt from Edward Humes's new book, Baby ER. The portion that appears in RD begins with a description of the premature birth of Elias Allman, then follows him through the first weeks of his life. Not only does it show what happens from the parents' point of view, but it also describes the daily routine of doctors and nurses who work in the NICU. It is a fascinating glimpse into "Baby ER."

When we were dealing with our baby's early birth, we saw things only from the parents' side. We never thought about how that kind of environment must affect a doctor or nurse. This article opened our eyes to what it must mean to work in the NICU. It provided a penetrating look into the jobs and emotions of the medical professionals, making them seem more human than ever.

Edward Humes also does a splendid job of showing what a parents of premature babies deal with while their children stay in the hospital. He describes the ordeal with such exceptional detail that we felt as if we were in the situation all over again.

My favorite part of the article is that it simply observes; it does not judge. For once, the author doesn't bring up the big "We can save preemies, but should we?" controversy. He simply records what happens when premature babies and others enter the NICU. It makes fascinating reading, especially if you have been there yourself.

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