THE PEACEFUL NICU
(Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)
Bleika, RN with new mom Dawn Regan and baby Madeline
All expecting moms want the assurance that their babies will have access to the best medical attention. Most babies are born without complications, but for those who need a higher level of care, Virginia Hospital Center offers a state-of-the-art NICU with all private patient suites. Donna Tildon-Archer, MD, Medical Director of the NICU, explains the benefits of this unique environment.
What is a NICU?
A neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) provides intensive care for premature babies, as well as full-term babies who are born with complications such as respiratory problems or infections. These are special babies that require more constant monitoring.
What is a neonatologist?
A neonatologist is a physician who has completed a three-year residency in pediatrics, followed by extensive subspecialty training. As a Level IIIA NICU according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, Virginia Hospital Center has the ability to provide ventilator-assisted care, as well as treatment for other serious medical conditions. We have five board-certified neonatologists on staff, meaning there is a specialist in the house, 24/7. In addition, neonatal nurse practitioners work closely with doctors on patient care, discharge planning and educating parents. This ensures the best possible outcome for NICU babies.
Why are private rooms so important for NICU babies?
Each room's temperature and lighting can be individually controlled. This allows each baby to rest with fewer interruptions, which aids growth and recovery. Your baby won't be disturbed, for example, if the newborn next door needs emergency intensive treatment or phototherapy lights for jaundice. A baby in a peaceful environment doesn't have to use excess oxygen or calories reacting to adverse stimulation.
Is it safe for my baby to be alone?
Traditionally, newborns in intensive care have been cared for in large rooms because it was thought that they shouldn't be out of a nurse's sight. But with advances in high-tech monitoring equipment, we can now give babies the security of constant monitoring in a more private, peaceful environment that minimizes disruption. Each cardio-respiratory monitoring system is connected to three central monitoring stations at the nurse's desk. That means you have multiple nurses monitoring your baby simultaneously.
When can I hold my baby in the NICU?
We encourage moms to hold their babies as soon as they are medically stable. Skin-to-skin contact helps babies lower their oxygen demand and improve their calorie utilization. The private rooms provide a more comfortable environment for new moms and babies to bond.
Can I stay with my baby in the NICU?
Yes. Private suites allow parents to be with their babies as often and as long as they want to, and each room includes a sleeping chair for spending the night. This is particularly helpful in easing the transition to home once the baby is close to being discharged.
Can I breastfeed my baby in the NICU?
Yes. NICU babies can begin breastfeeding when they are physiologically ready. Until babies are able to breastfeed, we have breast pumps available and will store milk on-site in freezers. Breast milk is important for all babies, especially premature ones, because it has needed calories, protein and immune factors and is treated as a medication. The NICU uses a thorough checking system for the proper identification of breast milk. Milk that is pumped can be fed through a feeding tube, if needed, until your baby is strong enough to begin breastfeeding.