The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is an around-the-clock service for newborns who require intensive nursing and medical care. Parents may feel anxious when their infant is admitted to the NICU. Physicians and nurses are available to help you understand the care your infant is receiving and to assist in any way possible during your infant’s stay in the NICU.

NICU STAFF

• Neonatologists: Pediatricians specially trained in the care of premature and sick newborns
• Resident Physicians: Physicians completing advanced training in the care of infants and children
• Primary Nurses: Registered nurses who work with the medical team to coordinate an infant’s plan of care
• Respiratory Therapists: Professionals trained in the operation of respirators and other types of oxygen therapy
• Speech and Occupational Therapists: Pediatric-trained professionals who assist in child development
• Others: Additional staff are available to help, including chaplains, lab technicians, X-ray technicians, unit secretaries and housekeepers

Visitors

• The NICU is closed to visitors and non-urgent telephone calls from 6:30 a.m. – 8 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
• To enter the NICU, pick up the phone outside the double doors and a staff member will let you in
• Before entering, visitors must scrub in at the scrub-in station located within the double doors outside the NICU
• We ask that only two people are with the infant at one time
• All visitors must be accompanied by the infant’s parent

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long will my baby be in the NICU?

Discharge dates depend on how quickly your baby’s health improves.

Will I be able to hold my baby?

Yes, we encourage you to spend time with your baby. When the infant is well, you will be able to hold and cuddle him or her.

Can I call about my baby?

Yes, but we ask that you not call between 6:30 a.m. – 8 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. in order for the nursing staff to change shifts. When you call, you will be asked to identify yourself and provide a password. Families that live outside of the local calling range are asked to use our toll free number 1-888-433-0065.

Discharge

You must choose a pediatrician to care for your baby before leaving the NICU. If you need a physician, we will be glad to help you find one. PMC will provide medical records for your child.