Redlands Community Hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is for
babies who were born prematurely or in need of additional medical support.
As a Level 3 NICU, babies remain there until they are discharged home
or become stable enough to room with their mother in the Couplet Care unit.
Special equipment is used to observe and monitor babies closely, as well
as provide the correct balance of warmth, nourishment and oxygen if needed
The staff includes neonatologists, pediatricians, registered nurses, lactation
consultants, social workers, and respiratory and occupational therapists
Another special group are our volunteer “Cuddlers,” who hold
the babies to enhance their recovery
Patients are encouraged to be involved in their baby’s care and will
be given frequent reports of his/her progress
The NICU supports breastfeeding, and lactation consultants are available
to assist you.
However, if mom is unable to produce enough breast milk, human donor breast
milk is also available.
Your baby will be discharged from the NICU once intensive care is no longer required.
The nurses will teach you how to care for your baby and send you home with
written discharge instructions.
NICU families form special bonds with the nurses during their stay. Reunions
are held every five years to maintain these bonds and see how the infants
have grown.
Danielle
