LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Even though we're living in bizarre times, some parts of life keep chugging along. Like having babies.
That's a pretty scary thought for some people these days, but there's free help available to calm those fears. 13 Action News Anchor Tricia Kean has a look at what's out there.
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
"They don't care if it's a pandemic, babies are still going to come and moms and dads still need to know this information," said registered nurse Amy Thacker.
She's in your corner, virtually of course.
Thacker's getting parents ready for childbirth through her online class, along with others like Baby Basics and Breastfeeding, offered absolutely free by Dignity Health.
"Things that you need to know like, how to get into the hospital during times of COVID," said Thacker, about what the classes have to offer.
"Do you need to wear a mask while you're in labor? Can I have family visiting me?"
ASK OR TEXT YOUR QUESTIONS
The live online classes allow for safe social distancing while still answering questions mom, dad or even grandparents may have about pregnancy, labor, post-delivery recovery and child care.
"Any question that's asked of me is an excellent question," she said. "Whether they text or put it out there, I will stop and address that question and I won't move forward until I feel like I've answered their question."
INTERACTIVE MOVIES
Of course, moving these once in-person classes online has its challenges.
"I have my props with me, so we show them on the camera," said registered nurse and lactation consultant Tennille Strode.
Strode says they've thought of everything.
Along with dolls used for demonstrations, participants are supplied with a free coursebook.
"We have interactive movies and slides in the book," Strode explained.
Simply scan the provided QR code and you can watch corresponding videos.
Strode says with so many old wives tales out there, she believes these classes provide essential information for anyone expecting.
"The true, factual information or evidence-based information is what we want to give them. Not the hand me down information," she said.
SENSE OF CONFIDENCE
Thacker agrees and says expecting parents won't be disappointed.
"There's a greater sense of confidence in an ability to care for their child and to go 'oh wait, I learned that in class,'" she said.
