To maximize your ability to touch your baby, ask your nurses or doctors if you could go without the arm restraints.  Also, ask if they can place the IV and pulsometer on one arm, leaving the other free to touch the baby, even if it is still somewhat encumbered by the blood pressure cuff.

A Note for Partners

You will be asked to stay seated behind the screen. Some partners feel comfortable standing up to look at what is happening on the other side of the screen, others stay glued to their seats. After the baby is born, check with a nurse and with her okay, walk over to the warmer to see the baby.  After time at the warmer, the nurse will carry the baby back and you and your partner will hold the baby during the remainder of the repair. You will play an important role in helping baby and mother make contact.