(La Porte, IN) - The La Porte Fire Department is taking part in a new program that will help train firefighters with the proper medical training needed to help deliver babies from mothers who have at-risk pregnancies.
“Project Swaddle” is a partnership between the LaPorte Fire Department and Franciscan Health to help combat a high infant mortality rate in LaPorte County. So far, under the new program, nine babies have been born.
LaPorte Assistant Fire Chief Kelly Burke said the voluntary program, which started in April, involves going to the homes of expectant mothers on a patient list, provided by Franciscan Health. Visits with the soon-to-be mothers are scheduled between check-ups with their doctors, and include checking blood pressure, pulse, and other vital signs. The firefighters also provide information on what the expectant mothers should do to help lower the risk of complications during pregnancy, and where to go to address any issues or concerns they might have while carrying the child.
“We’re just there as a guide to kind of help keep them on track and point them in the right direction when needed,” he said.
Burke said one firefighter certified as a paramedic, and three trained as emergency medical technicians, usually visit homes twice during the woman's pregnancy and twice after birth. Visits after birth focus on weighing the baby to make sure their growth rates are normal, educating the mothers on safe sleep for infants, and other safe care methods. Firefighters also look for any signs of postpartum depression in the mother, or other struggles they might be having. Visits are also a source of emotional support for mothers, who are also given advice on matters like car seat safety and breastfeeding,
“Some people just need a little extra help and there’s no problem with that. We’re happy to be part of the program,” he said.
Burke oversees the program in LaPorte and serves as a liaison between the department and Franciscan Health, who launched the program in 2018 at Crawfordsville. Ever since, the personalized visits have shown to help mothers stay engaged in monitoring their health and the health of their babies.
Participants have also been found to be more likely to follow through on their scheduled medical appointments, maintain a safe home environment, and become more confident as parents.
“I’m thankful that LaPorte County women will have a greater chance at healthier pregnancies and raising healthier babies through this partnership with the LaPorte Fire Department,” said Tristan Kirby, Franciscan Health Prenatal Assistance Program Director.
Factors resulting in patients being classified as high-risk can include diabetes, hypertension, being younger than 17 or older than 35, a pregnancy with multiple babies, previous pre-term labor along with a previous pregnancy loss and substance use disorder.
Burke said 17 mothers have enrolled into the program since its inception.
“There were some growing pains putting it together but I think it’s off to a great start,” he said.
Burke said participants also receive gifts such as car seats and diapers.
According to the Indiana State Department of Health, the infant mortality rate in LaPorte County at 11.1 for every 1,000 live births is the third highest among the 92 counties in the state and double the national rate.
