An Apnea monitor has been ordered for your baby. I’m sure you have many questions about the need for it and how long you will have to use it. Your doctor should have explained to you why the monitor was ordered.

In general, the monitor was ordered because the baby had an episode of either slow heart rate (bradycardia) or stoppage of breathing (apnea). The baby may “spit up” (reflux) which in turn may cause Apnea or bradycardia. If this problem occurred within 24-48 hrs. of discharge the monitor would be ordered.

Average length of time to be on the monitor runs between 2-4 months. This normally depends on the baby’s progress and growth. The doctors will judge progress using the information in the monitor. This information will be collected approximately every thirty days. If you haven’t heard from a therapist around thirty days please call our office and an appointment will be set up when the therapist returns your call. This information is sent to a doctor for interpretation and a report is sent to your pediatrician.