Union Hospital's 15-bed, Level III NICU is the largest in a 70-mile radius and was the first NICU in the state. Sometimes problems arise that require a newborn to be hospitalized. When this happens, the baby will be admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for treatment. The NICU at Union Hospital is recognized throughout the region for its exceptional approach to providing superior and compassionate care. More importantly, it has touched the lives of thousands of families since it opened in 1968. Parents continually thank our NICU staff for the exemplary care given to their infants and the emotional support given to their families.
The NICU prides itself on its more personal, "soft touch" approach to care providing soothing background music and frequent infant massages performed by pediatric physical therapists. The unit also supports a visitation policy that encourages parents to be with their babies as much as possible.
Around-the-Clock Care
If your baby is born premature or with other complications, he/she will need special medical attention and an advanced level of care. That is why we have board-certified neonatologist coverage 24/7. Neonatologists diagnose and treat medical conditions in newborns, coordinate the medical care and management of premature and critically ill infants and provide care to newborns during a complicated delivery. They have the training and knowledge required to treat even the smallest infant.
Along with Union Hospital's neonatologist, our NICU is staffed 24 hours a day by a specially trained team of nurses, respiratory therapists, and social workers.
Advanced Technology
Our NICU's state-of-the-art equipment is specially designed to care for critically ill and premature infants. Equipment ranges from more high-tech items, such as specialized infant monitors and intravenous pumps, to more traditional approaches, such as rocking chairs and taped lullabies.
Oftentimes, premature and critically ill newborns have respiratory complications. Our NICU has sophisticated technology available to treat these problems. A type of mechanical ventilation called high-frequency jet ventilation helps babies breathe without stressing the lungs.
For mothers wanting to breastfeed their newborn, we utilize a breast milk identification system to ensure that every infant is receiving the proper breast milk. This technology also allows us to track and audit feedings to better monitor the eating habits and health of your newborn.