Jessica Holbrook, MSN, RN, CCRN

Jessica is a current ICU nurse and nurse writer with specialized certifications in pediatrics, life flight, and cardiac surgery. She has spent most of her healthcare career caring for medically complex and chronically ill pediatric patients. Her writing focuses on education of patients and families to help them make informed healthcare decisions.

 

Jessica graduated with her Masters of Science in Nursing from Weber State University, where she focused on hospital quality improvement and expanding access to healthcare for at-risk populations. Her masters thesis focused on health and wellness education for adolescents.

 

Before starting her career in healthcare, Jessica worked for years as a nanny and a high school sports coach. She spends her spare time trail running with her husband and baking with her daughter.

Jessica Holbrook
Woman holds open medical medicinal candle in hands.

Pregnancy

When Can I Pee After Inserting a Progesterone Suppository?

In order to absorb the entire dose of medicine, you shouldn’t pee for some time after inserting a progesterone suppository. Here’s what you need to know.

Pregnant Black Lady Suffering From Nausea Holding Hand Near Mouth.

Pregnancy

Is Nausea a Sign of Labor? 7 Signs & Symptoms To Watch For

Feeling nauseated toward the end of your pregnancy? You could be starting the first stages of labor. Here’s everything you need to know, plus other signs to look for.

Unhappy young asian woman holding pregnancy test showing a negative result.

Pregnancy

Can Twins Really Cause a False Negative Pregnancy Test?

Twin pregnancies can cause false negative pregnancy tests in some women. If you have missed a period but are testing negative, you may need an ultrasound test.

Young woman in pain lying on couch at home.

Pregnancy

7 Signs Ovulation Is Over

Tracking your ovulation symptoms can help you with family planning and preparation for your next menstrual cycle.

Healthy little kid shortly after birth.

Health & Nutrition

Newborn Leg Shaking: Should You Be Worried?

A newborn’s immature nervous system may cause leg shakes and jerking movements of the arms and legs. Shaking movements can be completely normal in newborns.

Young married couple teaching their son to learn the first baby steps in their home.

Development

Late Walking in Babies: 7 Common Reasons

If your baby isn’t walking by 18 months of age, they may need a little help with walking. Physical therapy and adaptive equipment can help.

Pregnant woman puring measuring spoon with portion of protein powder into glass.

Pregnancy, Product Reviews

7 Best Pregnancy-Safe Protein Powders of 2023

Protein powders can help you meet your dietary needs during pregnancy. Choose supplements with low-added sugar and no artificial flavors.

Pregnant woman looking her baby on ultrasound image.

Pregnancy

When Should a Baby Be Head Down During Pregnancy?

The safest way for a baby to be delivered is with their head facing down. A baby should be head down by around 37 weeks but may flip later.

Caucasian pregnant woman having painful contractions before labour.

Pregnancy

Dos and Don’ts Before Labor Induction: How to Prepare

Just like any other type of delivery, there are dos and don'ts to keep in mind before labor induction. Here’s what you need to know before your induction.

Woman With Postpartum Belly Looking At The Mirror In Bathroom.

Pregnancy

How Long Does It Take for Your Uterus to Shrink After Pregnancy?

Your uterus should return to its normal size 6-8 weeks after your baby’s birth. Breastfeeding and uterine massage can help your uterus shrink.

The baby is crying in his mother's arms.

Health & Nutrition

How To Treat Silent Reflux in Babies

Silent reflux can be painful for newborns and infants. You can treat silent reflux by using special bottle nipples, formula, or medication.

Little baby drinking from spout cup sitting in highchair at home.

Health & Nutrition

Transitioning From Formula to Milk: When, Why, and How

You can start weaning your baby from formula to whole cow’s milk when they’re about twelve months old. Find out how to transition from formula to milk here.

Mother breastfeeding her newborn baby in a white bed.

Breastfeeding

Can Breast Milk Come Back After Drying Up?

Getting breast milk to come back after drying up is possible for up to 4 weeks. Relactation takes a lot of time, effort, and patience to make it happen.

Mother breastfeeding newborm baby near the window.

Breastfeeding

How to Dry Up Breast Milk Naturally

The best way to dry up breast milk naturally is to slowly wean from breastfeeding or pumping. You can use ice to help with pain from engorgement.

A mother woman holds an infant baby to regurgitate excess air after breastfeeding.

Health & Nutrition

My Baby Spit Up Mucus. Should I Be Concerned?

It’s normal for babies to occasionally spit up mucus, especially if they have a cold or congestion. Call the doctor if you see bloody or dark brown mucus.