Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
By working closely with each parent and creating a supportive and compassionate environment, the neonatology team at Providence St. Mary Medical Center's NICU provides empathetic, comforting and highly specialized care for critically ill babies. As the only level III NICU in the Victor Valley, our team is ready for any problem that may arise.
We understand the stress parents face when their child is in intensive care, which is why we provide family centered care that ensures you as a parent play an active role in the treatment and recovery of your baby.
We recommend parents participate in their baby’s care as the medical condition allows. Talk to your baby in a soft, gentle tone. You may bring pictures for your baby to look at or a small toy that can sit next to the baby's bed. Parents are encouraged to hold their baby skin to skin (kangaroo care) to provide warmth, comfort and bonding.
The NICU is directed by neonatologists who have advanced training in the care of sick and premature newborns. With careful collaboration, the team assesses any respiratory disorders, blood disorders, heart problems, growth problems, infections or other conditions affecting your baby to determine the most effective treatments. Along with you, your infant’s personal care team consists of:
- Neonatologists
- Neonatal nurses
- Respiratory Therapists
- Physical/Occupational Therapists
- Lactation Consultants
- Dietitians
- Social Workers
In an effort to provide top-quality care, Providence St. Mary intensive infant care promotes:
- Breastfeeding
- Skin-to-skin bonding (kangaroo care)
- Rooming-in prior to infant discharge
While we know the importance of having family be with your baby, we have a limited visitor policy at this time to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and keep our patients and caregivers safe. Please call us at 760-946-8158 for visiting guidelines.