Cuski Claire’s Clinical NICU Nest

For hospital use only

This nest has been specifically designed by Sister Claire Ellerby and the neonatal team at the RVI, Newcastle and created by Cuski. These are a part of developmental care used across the UK and beyond on the NICU/SCBU.

The nests provide the security and boundaries for premature babies that are missing when they are born early. Being born so early leaves the babies vulnerable to external stimuli that can impact on their development. Helps to prevent flailing. They are used to mimic the safety of the womb and to support development.

Provides the optimum environment to contain and support the position of the baby, helping to facilitate normal physical development.

Designed and constructed with safe boundaries and comfort to aid physiological stability and support positive neurodevelopmental outcomes.

The baby is comfortably contained within the nest design by two soft but firm boundaries, positioned around the body and head of the baby.

We advise a temperature is taken prior to placing the baby in the nest and then rechecked within an hour, and adjust incubator accordingly.

The nests provide the security and boundaries for premature babies that are lost or flail when they are born early. Being born so early leaves the babies vulnerable to external stimuli that can impact on their development. They are used to mimic the safety of the womb and to support development.

Two wide straps on either side of the nest are used to provide security and help support the normal flexed posture experienced while in the womb.

In tests Claire’s Nests passed 90 degrees wash, ideally recommend wash up to 70 degrees.

Use only cool dry setting to keep nests in shape! Save our planet

Nests are used with medical supervision only, HOSPITAL USE ONLY

Neonates can be nursed Prone, Supine or Lateral within the nest.

Neonates can be supportively nursed Prone, Supine or Lateral within the nest.

Regular position changes in neonates can help reduce head moulding, and provides pressure care relief to support good skin integrity.

Lateral and Prone positioning has shown to improve digestion and respiratory effort in some neonates.

Any neonate nursed prone or lateral within the nest MUST be monitored via a cardiorespiratory monitor or apnoea box. This should be discussed and explained to parents.

Safe sleeping with regards to reducing cot death risk, should always be discussed with parents in accordance with current healthcare guidelines.

Do not use if any component is broken or missing.

Nest sizes are provided for guidance only. Always assess each neonate individually, and use an appropriate sized nest for their needs. Cuskis Bertie positioning aid can be used to facilitate this.

Temperature control is important when using Claire’s Nest, as it provides a thermal environment for the neonate. The neonates temperature must be checked prior to placing in the nest, and 1 hour later to avoid overheating. Temperatures should be observed regularly. Please be mindful of incubators using humidity and neonates being dressed as they mature, or undressed for observation or procedures. It is advisable to document any changes, to ensure consistency in temperature monitoring and control.