nicu nurse

How do hospitals transport newborns in an emergency evacuation?

It’s just one of those things you never think about, unless of course you’re a nurse.That’s why people are usually shocked to find out how it’s actually done.

Like this mom, for instance, whose TikTok handle is @momma1323. In a clip posted to her account, she admitted to being “freaked out” as she showed an oversized vest (aka an evacuation apron) with pockets large enough to fit…let’s say, a baby…inside.

“We’re just shoving the babies in feet first?” @momma1323 asks.

Yep, that’s correct. Expect probably the shoving part.

As this woman’s video shows, there are actually a variety of vest types. One (the first vest showed) keeps the baby’s head upright.

Another places the baby completely inside the pocket sideways, almost kangaroo style. Either way, nurses are able to move about with their hands free while getting these newborns to safety.

There’s also the evacuation stroller, which can hold up to four-to-six babies, depending on the model. Perhaps more sturdy, but then you lose the hands-free benefit.

“I don’t know why I never even thought about or considered what it would be like for them to evacuate a hospital…it’s never even crossed my mind,” @momma1323 said.

She’s not the only one with this kind of reaction. In fact, some folks have a…let’s say, stronger reaction when they find out…

And when you see little bloopers like this one below, it’s understandable that people would be a tad nervous.

Gosh, it’s the thud of the baby doll against the wall that really makes this peak dark humor.

But all jokes aside, emergencies are never ideal situations. These tools can help staff move multiple babies at once if absolutely necessary, and they are trained in how to use them safely. It might seem a little odd, but heaven forbid something happens, these funny looking vest for the the very thing that saves a baby’s life.

And now, let’s just all file this under “things I never knew I never knew.”