Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) provides specialized care for sick newborns. When your baby arrives, he or she will be examined and several tests will be performed. The staff will talk with you as soon as possible about your baby's health and treatment plan.
While in the NICU, your baby will be on a special monitor to help staff watch his or her heart rate and breathing very closely. This is the reason for the tubes and wires. They may be noisy and overwhelming to you, but they generally aren't uncomfortable for babies.
Talk to the nursing staff about the best time to visit your baby. When you visit, you will need to follow specific handwashing guidelines, which the staff will explain to you. If you have a cold, fever, or other infection, check with the nurse before visiting. You will receive more information about our visiting policy on your first visit.
You may bring two washable, plastic toys to your baby. Babies like black and white or brightly colored pictures. If you have other children, they can send artwork to put up on your baby's bed. Other ideas are a music box, photos of family members, and a tape recording or your voice or music.
You may call the unit at 598-4140 any time, day or night, to check on your child. Please relay information to family and friends.
- You may visit at any time, 24 hours a day, except during shift changes, which are 7 to 8 a.m., 3 to 4 p.m., 7 to 8 p.m., and 11 p.m. to midnight, rounds, and admissions
- Only two people may visit at one time
- Wash your hands before entering and before leaving the NICU
- Sibling visits must be arranged with the nurse
- If you or any visitor has a cold, fever, or other infection, check with the nurse before visiting
More Information...
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