Patient Guide: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
The NICU has specially trained nurses, neonatal nurse practitioners, physicians, physician assistants and respiratory therapists who all make up a part of the care team required to care for these special newborns.
What to Expect
At Delivery
Sometimes the NICU team may be present at the delivery of your baby so they can immediately start to address any needs your baby may have.
Admission
If your baby goes to the NICU, a medical team is present and oversees the care of your baby 24/7. The team also works collaboratively and closely with parents to keep you updated and informed about the care of your baby. Parents are viewed as a member of the care team.
The nutritional needs of your baby are always a priority. If your baby can feed, moms will breast feed as soon as possible. If your baby is unable to feed, pumping breast milk is greatly encouraged and supported. We also encourage skin-to-skin with both mom and dad and will seek to make physical contact between you and your baby a priority as soon as possible.
Infection Prevention
Due to current health concerns regarding COVID-19, RSV and flu, the NICU is only allowing the birthing parent and partner or support person in the NICU. You will be asked a series of health screening questions prior to entry into the NICU. If you are symptomatic for illness you be asked not to visit until all symptoms have resolved.