A maternity nurse, also known as a newborn care specialist is a trained professional who provides support and assistance to families during the postnatal period. Their primary role is to provide guidance, education, and practical help to new parents in caring for their newborn baby.

Here are some of the tasks and responsibilities of a maternity nurse:

1. Newborn care: A maternity nurse helps with all aspects of newborn care, including feeding (breastfeeding or bottle-feeding), bathing, changing nappies, soothing techniques, and establishing healthy sleep routines. They can also offer advice on breastfeeding techniques and help troubleshoot common breastfeeding challenges.

2. Postnatal support: The nurse provides emotional support and reassurance to new parents as they adjust to their new roles. They help parents build confidence in their parenting skills, offer encouragement, and address any concerns or questions they may have.

3. Parental education: Maternity nurses provide education and guidance on various topics related to infant care, such as newborn development, safety practices, proper handling and holding techniques, and recognising signs of illness or discomfort. They can also offer guidance on postpartum recovery for the mother, including advice on nutrition, exercise, and self-care.

4. Nighttime care: Many maternity nurses offer overnight care to allow new parents to get much-needed rest. They can handle nighttime feedings, nappy changes, and soothing the baby back to sleep, allowing parents to get uninterrupted sleep and regain their energy.

5. Household support: In addition to caring for the baby, a maternity nurse may assist with light household chores, such as laundry, tidying up the nursery, and preparing meals for the family. Their focus, however, remains on the well-being of the baby and the parents.

It’s important to note that the specific duties and scope of work may vary depending on the family’s needs and the agreement between the maternity nurse and the parents. Some maternity nurses work on a live-in basis for a designated period, while others provide daytime or overnight support only.

Overall, the goal of a maternity nurse is to provide practical assistance, guidance, and reassurance to new parents during the early weeks or months following the birth of their baby, promoting a positive and nurturing environment for both the parents and the newborn.