We had a mom who was unable to move her arms much more than just the small
motor movements to write (you had to put the paper and pen in her hand and
she could move enough to write).  Baby was in NICU and we had a very hard
time with pumping due to the position of her nipples on her breasts - very
high up, so the helper had to keep breaking suction to tilt the bottles
(medela) so the milk would go downhill - she could not tip her trunk as if
she did, she would topple over since she had no muscle strength in her
torso.

The use of the Over the shoulder baby holder seemed to work for her in the
hospital  We would put it on very high and place the baby inside.  Her arms
were also placed inside, and she was able to pet him - but not position
him, we had to do this.

The sad part is they gave up very quickly, so I don't know how much would
have been accomplished.  Heavens knows I can't judge their decision.  Only
those who are in those moccasins can know...

Jeanette Panchula, BSW, RN, IBCLC
Puerto Rico
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