First Hours (0–6 hours)

  • Cooling therapy decision window (if eligible).
  • Stabilization of breathing and circulation.
  • Initial monitoring: blood work, EEG, and head ultrasound.

First Days (0–7 days)

  • Cooling therapy (if started) continues for up to 72 hours.
  • Re-warming followed by a brain MRI to check the brain for any injury.
  • Seizure monitoring and treatment.
  • Nutrition plan (IV, tube feeding, breast milk if possible).
  • Parent support from NICU team/social workers.

 

 

First Weeks (up to 1 month)

  • Transition from NICU to home (if stable).
  • Follow-up appointments scheduled (neurology, pediatrics, therapy).
  • Feeding and growth monitoring.
  • Early Intervention referral process begins.

 

 

First Months (1–6 months)

  • Regular milestone screening (motor skills, vision, hearing).
  • Ongoing therapy (PT, OT, speech) may begin.
  • Medication adjustments (if seizures or other issues).
  • Parent support groups and counseling recommended.

 

 

First Year and Beyond

  • Continued developmental monitoring.
  • Specialist follow-ups (neurology, rehab, orthopedics as needed).
  • Planning long-term therapies and educational supports.
  • Celebrating progress, adjusting care as your child grows.

Remember: every child’s journey is unique. This timeline is a guide, not a strict
schedule.