I am not a nurse but an expectant mother...

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My child will most likely be born premature and I have a question. Are babies who have to be on ventilators sedated? I was wondering if the sedation would slow down the breathing even more or if they sedated them to keep them more comfortable. Thanks for your help.

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Specializes in NICU, CVICU.

That is an excellent question for your doctor or a neonatologist at your hospital. Each case is different so there isn't a simple yes or no answer and we can't give medical advice on this site.

My thoughts will be with you and your baby.

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I'd like to extend my good wishes as well. While it's really hard to comment about individual situations in a forum like this (which is one reason we stay away from providing medical advice), please do rest assured that comfort measures and pain control are top priorities in the NICU.

I hope that you'll be able to discuss things in more detail with your medical team. I'm wishing for the best possible outcome for you and your child.

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Specializes in Looking for a career in NICU.

I'm not a nurse, but had a 29 weeker. She only had to be vented for 6 hours.

How early is early? Remember, that if you have a medical condition where you know you will deliver early, they can give you medications to help with your baby's lung development, and it is very possible that a vent may not be needed at all, but again, depends on how early and other factors that may be affecting baby's development.

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