It's nice to have the NICU on your side

Along with the really hard and not-so-fun things about having a baby in the NICU, there are definitely good things that come with it.
Like the fact that I learned how to feed, burp, bathe, and otherwise take care of a newborn from some of the most qualified teachers in the country. (Think about it; that is not an exaggeration.) And if I had a question those very qualified and caring people were literally "at my fingertips." It is a pretty nice vote of confidence when those people tell you they are sure you are ready to go home and take care of your baby. And considering all the time I spent observing and learning from them, I felt pretty ready.
I had lots of trouble getting Noah scheduled for his big follow-up clinic and no one would give me any information. Until I mentioned that to the NICU staff. Then I received everything in the mail within a few days.
Of course I trust the their opinion more than any others, so I have called with questions a few times. Recently I learned that I'm not so much supposed to do that...oops. So yesterday I just had a simple little question, if I can use that nasty sore throat spray while breastfeeding. I resisted the urge to push the NICU speed dial on my phone (I suppose I should delete that) and called that 24 hour nurse hotline to ask. After quite a bit of being on hold, they said they didn't know and to call my doctor. Really, get through to my doctor, funny joke... Next I tried calling WIC. They didn't know; call the pharmacy. After not getting a real person there I gave in and called the NICU. I got an immediate answer from one of the nurses who helped deliver and save my child.
It's nice to have the NICU on your side.