Info learned from Methodist Women's Hospital NICU tours

Notes from NICU Tour with Laurie – Charge Nurse

-          If Ethan is admitted to NICU get two blue bracelets that can visit him 24/7.  There would be 4 yellow bands that can come visit him without us present.  Anyone else would need JAM or I.

-          Wednesday night they have CPR classes

-          At 32 weeks can try nipple feedings

-          Surgeries have to go to Children’s.  Trach surgery would be later once is done growing etc.

-          Have free laundry for parents

-          At 32 weeks baby can wear clothes

-          Neo natal doctors are on two week shifts

-          Eyes are checked at 32 weeks and then as needed

-          Can fortify breast milk if needed

-          JAM can go into stabilization room with Ethan, and go on to neonatal floor.  Start with monitoring, get an IV in (either through arm or umbilical).  Can take videos but ask that it be announced.

-          Visit with doctor or nurse practitioner each day baby is in NICU.

-          Can do facetime between mom and baby if I am too sick to come to his room

-          If Ethan is born at less than 32 weeks, he will be in an Omni bed (with lid).

-          For the first 48 hours all babies get antibiotics.  Then test and stop if blood cultures show it is not needed

-          If born at less than 34 weeks, will get donor milk until mine comes in from Denver or Iowa banks.

-          If Ethan is born at 36 weeks or later, no NICU admitting.  Nurses on normal floor will check blood sugars and temps. If issues then go to NICU.

-          Could be on third floor (nice separate rooms), but those are for sickest babies and as space allows.  There is more space on the fourth floor, and a common baby room for 8 or so.  There were four in that room while I was there.

NICU Tour August 2nd - 31 weeks along - with Katie

- At this point would hopefully only need oxygen into his nose, not tubes

- Rose cannot visit because not potty trained.

- Food - cannot have food in the room except in the fridge.  Can have cups with lids.  They have breakfast items in refreshment room near elevators.  Get $5 voucher for lunch and dinner.  Have to go down to cafeteria to get food.

- Baths every third day.

- if he makes it to 36 weeks they would be present for delivery in case support is needed, but would not plan to take him to NICU.