What to Expect When Your Baby Needs Oxygen Support at Home
Bringing your baby home from the NICU is an exciting milestone, but for some families, the journey doesn’t end there. If your baby still needs oxygen support after discharge, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. However, with the right information and preparation, you can confidently care for your baby’s oxygen needs at home.
In this guide, we’ll cover why babies need oxygen, how home oxygen therapy works, and what you can expect as you transition to life outside the hospital.
Why Do Some Babies Need Oxygen at Home?
Some newborns, especially preemies and NICU graduates, may have underdeveloped lungs or medical conditions that make it difficult for them to get enough oxygen on their own. Your baby’s doctor may recommend oxygen support at home for conditions such as:
Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) – A chronic lung condition common in preemies.
Apnea or Periodic Breathing – Some babies have irregular breathing patterns that require extra oxygen.
Congenital Heart Disease – Some heart conditions affect oxygen circulation in the body.
Low Oxygen Saturation Levels – If your baby’s oxygen levels drop too low, they may need supplemental oxygen to ensure proper growth and brain development.
Most babies gradually outgrow their need for oxygen as their lungs mature, but the timeline varies for each child.
Types of Oxygen Support for Babies at Home
Your baby’s doctor will determine the type of oxygen delivery system that best meets their needs. The most common types include:
Nasal Cannula
A small, flexible tube that rests under your baby’s nose and delivers a steady stream of oxygen. Most common for home oxygen therapy. Flow rate is adjusted based on your baby’s oxygen needs.
Oxygen Tanks
Large or portable compressed oxygen tanks store oxygen for home use. Portable tanks allow for outings while ensuring oxygen support. Must be handled carefully and stored away from heat or flames.
Oxygen Concentrator/Compressor
A machine that pulls oxygen from the air and delivers it through the nasal cannula. Needs electricity to function, so backup plans are important in case of power outages. Ideal for continuous, at-home oxygen needs.
Pulse Oximeter (Oxygen Monitor)
A small device that attaches to your baby’s foot or hand to monitor oxygen levels. Alerts you if oxygen levels drop too low. Used alongside oxygen therapy to ensure the correct amount of oxygen is being delivered.
Caring for a Baby on Oxygen at Home
It may take time to adjust to your baby’s oxygen needs at home, but your medical team will guide you through the process. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Setting Up a Safe Environment
Keep oxygen equipment away from open flames, stoves, smokers, and heaters.
Secure tubing to prevent tangles or tripping hazards. Make sure tubing is not too long so flow can still be beneficial support.
Store oxygen tanks upright in a well-ventilated area.
2. Managing Oxygen Equipment
Check tubing regularly for kinks, pin holes, or blockages
Have a backup power source (like a generator or battery pack) for oxygen concentrators.
Keep extra nasal cannulas and supplies on hand.
3. Monitoring Your Baby’s Oxygen Levels
Watch for signs of low oxygen, such as bluish lips, fast breathing, or flaring nostrils.
Follow your doctor’s instructions on weaning oxygen as your baby grows stronger.
Keep regular follow-up appointments to assess your baby’s lung health.
4. Helping Your Baby Thrive
Some babies on oxygen may tire easily during feeding—paced feeding can help!
Encourage tummy time while keeping tubing secure.
Snuggle and bond with your baby—oxygen support won’t stop you from cuddling and skin-to-skin contact!
What Happens When It’s Time to Wean Off Oxygen?
Your doctor will monitor your baby’s oxygen needs and may gradually reduce the amount of oxygen over time. This process is called weaning and typically involves:
Shortening the amount of time your baby spends on oxygen each day.
Lowering the flow rate of oxygen while monitoring their saturation levels.
Doing an oxygen trial to see how your baby does without support.
Every baby is different—some may need oxygen for only a few weeks, while others may require it for several months. Your medical team will guide you through the process to ensure a safe transition.
You can do it! NEOwell can help!
Caring for a baby with oxygen support at home can feel intimidating at first, but with the right guidance, preparation, and support, you’ll soon feel confident managing your baby’s needs.
If you have any concerns, reach out to your baby’s pediatrician, pulmonologist, or home health team for guidance.
At NEOwell, we’re here to help you navigate your baby’s journey—whether they’re in the NICU, coming home, or growing stronger every day.