If your baby is premature or needs specialized care, we will transfer your infant to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). A team of professionals including a paediatrician or neonatologist, registered nurse and others, as needed, will provide expert care for your baby.
Each day, a physician will review your baby's care and progress. As the parent, you may participate in this discussion. If you are not able to be there in person, video chat is available.
As part of the care in the NICU, it is common for a baby to have:
- an intravenous (IV) line in their hand or foot,
- a machine to help them breathe,
- a small feeding tube to their stomach,
- an isolette (warming bed), and
- medications, such as antibiotics, given by mouth or IV
Mothers of infants in the NICU can access a social worker and lactation consultant as needed. Breastfeeding mothers are supported in maintaining their milk supply by either pumping or hand expressing for their babies, if needed.
Parents may visit their baby 24 hours a day. Other visitors may be limited, so please check with your baby's nurse before coming to the hospital.
