Level III NICU in Southeast Idaho
One of the most exciting family events is the birth of a newborn. A lot of preparation takes place in the months leading up to the big day. In the vast majority of cases, mothers deliver at term and mom and baby are home in one to three days. However, despite meticulous planning, unexpected issues may surface. At Portneuf Medical Center, our 16-bed neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) provides comprehensive services for babies needing extra care. Staffed by board-certified neonatologists, our NICU is equipped to care for both healthy and critically ill newborns. Our physicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to ensure your baby grows healthy and strong so you both can return home as soon as possible.
About our Level III NICU
An expectant mother may have various factors that might categorize her as a high-risk pregnancy, such as a family history that passes on an inheritable trait or disorder, an existing medical condition, a lifestyle habit (alcohol use, smoking, substance abuse/misuse), age over 35, multiple births, pregnancy–induced hypertension, gestational diabetes mellitus, or obesity. If a mother has a high-risk pregnancy, it may be reasonable for her to have a conversation with her obstetrician or delivery provider about visiting the NICU. Here, our neonatologist can discuss any concerns and/or expectations.
The Portneuf NICU is staffed by board-certified neonatologists, neonatal nurses, respiratory therapists, dietitians, speech, occupational and physical therapists, pharmacists, social workers and case managers. Additionally, we have a NICU flight team available 24 hours a day to transport babies. Our interdisciplinary team approach to care ensures your little one receives the most comprehensive care possible.
Reasons for NICU admission
There are a variety of reasons your baby may need to visit the NICU, including but not limited to:
- Chorioamnionitis
- Feeding problems
- Hematologic abnormalities requiring monitoring/treatment
- Hyperbilirubinemia requiring intensive phototherapy, IV hydration, possible exchange transfusion
- Hypoglycemia requiring IV therapy
- Infants who require prolonged resuscitation
- Intrauterine TORCHES infection
- Intrauterine viral infections requiring monitoring/treatment
- NAS (neonatal abstinence scoring) requiring treatment
- Newborns requiring palliative care who cannot remain in labor and delivery
- Newborns with cord pH less than 7
- Preterm infants less than 35 weeks
- Respiratory distress requiring intervention
- Seizures
- Subgaleal hemorrhage
- Suspected sepsis
No matter your baby’s condition, our highly skilled NICU team will work diligently to ensure your little one receives exceptional care tailored to their delicate needs.
Visiting our NICU
Our NICU team is dedicated to providing a family-centered approach to your baby’s care. Parents are encouraged to be part of the care team. Our unit allows for privacy in breastfeeding as infants are able, and skin-to-skin care is often referred to as kangaroo care.
The NICU is closed to visitors each day at the following times:
- 6:45am – 7:15am (Nurse’s report)
- 12pm – 1:30pm (Quiet time)
- 6:45pm – 7:15pm (Nurse’s report)
Please also make note of the following guidelines and suggestions:
Hand Washing
For your baby’s protection it is very important to wash your hands and forearms before you visit your baby. The nurse will instruct you in the procedure on your first visit. Good handwashing is very important to help prevent the spread of infections.
Feeding Your Baby
Even if your baby is in NICU, mothers are welcome to breastfeed. Your baby may not tolerate feedings for a while, so you will need to start pumping and saving your milk. Please talk to your nurse about getting started with a breast pump and the proper care and storage of your breast milk.
Taking Care of Yourself
We realize that this is a very stressful situation for you and your family. We want to remind you to take care of yourself. Eat regular meals, get plenty of rest. Meals are available in the Portneuf Grille or vending machines, both located on the ground floor.
Social Services
Babies, especially ill or premature babies, may have many different needs. Portneuf’s Social Services discharge planning staff are available to all parents. They will be glad to assist you with questions about insurance, billing, and help you in qualifying for any assistance that may be available to you, as well as providing emotional support. Portneuf also has a list of motels that offer reduced rates to families of patients.
Visiting Your Baby
Please visit your baby often. We ask that there be no more than three visitors at the bedside at any given time. Parents may visit anytime. Other visitors must be accompanied by a parent. No Children are allowed to visit in the NICU.