Neonatology

Extra Special Care for our Tiniest Patients

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. Even in the healthiest of pregnancies, emergencies arise. The CDC reports that in the United States 8% of infants are born with low birth weight (less than 5.5 pounds), and 9.6% are delivered prematurely (before 37 weeks gestation).

Our 16 bed neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is staffed by board-certified neonatologists, who are pediatricians who have gone through additional years of training. Theses subspecialists are able to care for both well and very critically ill newborns. These physicians are available 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week.

The Portneuf NICU is also staffed by neonatal nurses, respiratory therapists, dietitians, speech, occupational and physical therapists, pharmacists, social workers and case managers. Collectively our team has over 300 years combined experience to staff the unit. Our interdisciplinary team approach to care is beneficial for our tiniest patients. Additionally, our neonatal flight team is available 24 hours a day to transport babies.

An expectant mother may have factors that would categorize her as a high risk pregnancy - 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, 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. At which time, she can have a conversation with a neonatologist to discuss her concerns and/or expectations.

Planning ahead can make the birth experience a truly special occasion.

Reasons for admission to the NICU:

• Preterm infants less than 35 weeks
• Respiratory distress requiring intervention
• Chorioamnionitis
• Suspected sepsis
• Intrauterine viral infections requiring monitoring/treatment
• Intrauterine TORCHES infection
• NAS (neonatal abstinence scoring) requiring treatment
• Hypoglycemia requiring IV therapy
• Infants who require prolonged resuscitation
• Newborns with cord pH less than 7
• Hyperbilirubinemia requiring intensive phototherapy, IV hydration, possible exchange transfusion
• Feeding problems
• Hematologic abnormalities requiring monitoring/treatment
• Subgaleal hemorrhage
• Seizures
• Newborns requiring palliative care who cannot remain in labor and delivery