NICU Frequently Asked Questions
How big is the NICU?
Through our recent renovation, we have expanded our NICU from 24 beds to 33. This is the largest, most advanced NICU in the region.
What are some examples of advanced technology in your NICU?
- Neonatal ground/air transport team which includes transporting with nitric oxide
- Nitric Oxide
- High frequency ventilation
- Laser eye surgery for ROP
Who will care for my baby in the NICU?
- Board certified Neonatologists
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioners
- Registered Nurses
- Licensed Practical Nurses
- Respiratory Therapists
- Occupational Therapists
- Subspecialty Medical Consultants
- Social Workers
Will someone help me learn how to nurse my baby?
Yes. We have five lactation counselors and one lactation consultant that will help you and your baby learn to nurse.
When can I hold and touch my baby?
Nurses will encourage touching and holding as soon as possible. But it depends on your baby's condition. Kangaroo care (skin-to-skin contact by holding baby to chest) is encouraged as soon as your baby can tolerate it.
Who can visit my baby?
Parents are welcome 24/7 for as long as they wish to stay. Siblings, age 3 years and older, who are not ill are also welcome to visit. Only four visitors are allowed at a time (this includes parents).
What will be involved in my baby's daily care?
Your baby's care will be determined by his or her diagnosis and condition. Every baby is different and has different medical needs. Talk to your doctor and nurse for more information.
What can I do to help my baby?
- Touching and gently massaging will help comfort your baby.
- Pictures of family can be placed near your baby's incubator.
- Music can be soothing for your baby. You can also record yourself (reading a favorite book or singing a favorite song) for times when you can't be there. The recorder can be placed within your baby's incubator and may help to establish the infant-parent bond.
- Rocking or holding your baby. Being close to your child can be soothing for both of you.
- Toys can provide visual stimulation for your baby. Toys must be small, unbreakable, washable, without sharp edges and have no fuzz.
What sort of care will my baby need when he or she goes home? Is there someone who can help?
Your baby's at-home care will be dependent on his or her condition. MeritCare provides a Discharge Coordinator who meets all families upon admission to the NICU. The will help with discharge planning.
What is the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)?
MeritCare Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is designed specifically for newborns who require constant care, complicated surgical procedures, continuous respiratory support or other intensive interventions. The NICU combines state-of-the-art equipment with specialists who have extensive training, experience and professional certification in caring for babies born with life-threatening conditions.
Most babies admitted to the NICU are premature (born before 37 weeks of pregnancy), have low birthweight (less than 5.5 pounds) or have a medical condition that requires special care. Twins, triplets and other multiples are often admitted to the NICU because they tend to be born earlier and smaller than single birth babies. Babies with medical conditions such as heart problems, infections or birth defects are also cared for in the NICU.
Can I sleep there?
No, but you have a couple options to choose from and Guest Services can help. First, there are numerous hotels available within Fargo/Moorhead that will provide a reduced price during your child's stay at MeritCare. Another option is the Ronald McDonald House of the Red River Valley. Fargo has two Ronald McDonald houses where you are welcome to stay for the duration of your child's medical treatment. Contact Guest Services at (701) 234-5524. They will work to find the arrangements best suited to you and your needs.
What is a neonatologist?
A neonatologist is a children's doctor with specialty training and professional certification in the care of sick or premature newborns.
When is my baby going home?
The length of your baby's stay in the hospital will be determined by your baby's care team. The decision depends on your baby's diagnosis and length of treatment.
What are my chances of having another premature baby?
That's a hard question to answer. It's dependent on you condition. This concern will be best answered by your obstetrician.
When will my son be circumcised?
With healthy full term babies, circumcisions are usually done within the first 24 hours. Within the NICU, it depends on your baby's condition and whether he is medically able to handle the procedure. Circumcision will usually be one of the last procedures performed before your baby is discharged.
Can my baby stay in my birthing room?
Babies requiring NICU care need continuous monitoring. It is best for your baby to not stay in your room.
Why can't I hold my baby whenever I want to?
We are firm believers that a baby's family is an important part of his or her recovery. However, babies that are sick, need quiet, uninterrupted sleep to conserve energy and to reduce stress. It is very important to their healing. Parents are encouraged to visit their baby, participate in their baby's care and hold their baby, but only when it is a good time for your baby.
When can I breastfeed?
Breastfeeding will depend on your baby's condition and gestational age. Before breastfeeding can begin, your infant must be able to coordinate sucking, swallowing and breathing.
What time will the doctor be here and when can I speak with him or her?
Doctors and nurse practitioners are available in the NICU caring for babies 24/7. They will be happy to speak with you.
Did I do something wrong?
It's common for mothers to feel somewhat at fault for their baby's admission to the NICU. Prematurity, respiratory difficulties, low blood sugars and infections are not caused by anything you did.
Why is my baby losing weight?
It is normal for all babies to lose 10 to 15 percent of their birth weight in the first week after delivery. In the coming weeks, your baby will begin to put the weight back on and continue to grow.
How long will my baby be on antibotics?
Your baby's laboratory work, as well as signs and symptoms of infection, will be the deciding factors.
How long will my baby need phototherapy?
Factors that affect your baby's bilirubin level will determine how long phototherapy is needed. These factors include your baby's blood type, age, size and hydration status.
How long will my baby be on a ventilator or oxygen?
There are many factors that determine the length of time, including gestational age, diagnosis, signs and symptoms, and blood gas results.
Why is there an IV in my baby's head?
Sometimes babies veins are very fragile, leaving limited access for the IV. With a scalp vein, the catheter is inserted superficially into the vein and does not come in contact with the brain. A scalp vein is the same as any IV vein site and is commonly used in babies.
Does my baby feel pain when an IV is inserted?
Although some pain is felt, appropriate measures are taken to alleviate discomfort during procedures. Swaddling, providing support and containment, using a sucrose solution and providing a pacifier are just a few of the ways we comfort your baby.
Why does my baby have to be fed with a tube?
It is normal for premature babies to have problems with the ability to coordinate sucking, swallowing or breathing. To ensure proper nutrition, digestion and weight gain, your baby may need to initially be fed by a tube.
What is security like in the NICU?
Children are our most precious assets. While at MeritCare, keeping them safe and secure is of utmost importance. That is why MeritCare has purchased the Safe Place Infant/Child Monitoring Solution. It is state-of-the-art for your peace of mind.
What is family centered care?
A patient care philosophy that recognizes and respects the pivotal role of the family in the lives of patients, it strives to support families in the care-giving role by building on their unique strengths and viewing parents and professionals as equals.