The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) cares for babies that are premature, have low birth weight or require special care. In the NICU, we promote family-centered care.
The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) located on Level 2 of the North tower.
The NICU is a locked secure unit. To enter or exit, press the button on the intercom. A nurse will let you in or out. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water.
See our NICU Resources to help you care for your baby and transition to life with a newborn.
The Family Room is open to families 24 hours a day. It contains a small kitchenette, with a refrigerator and microwave.
Washrooms are located in the Family Room.
The Bunk Room is available to mothers who need to stay overnight. It is a private room containing a bed.
The Bunk Room is assigned daily and cannot be reserved in advance. Eligibility is assessed by the nursing team.
When using the room, it must be vacated by 9am to allow for cleaning. Personal belongings should be kept in a locker in the Family Room.
Each baby has their own care area that includes:
While in the NICU, baby's health care team may consist of physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, lactation consultants, allied health care providers and parents.
Parents are a vital member of the health care team. They are the baby's voice and source of comfort. Parents are welcome in the NICU 24 hours a day. On rare occasions, they may be asked to leave the bedside while staff provides care. During this time, they may wait in the waiting room. If you are not able to be with your baby, you may call the unit to get more information.
We encourage parents to ask questions and keep track of care information using a journal.
Every Tuesday and Friday at 10am an interdisciplinary team consisting of nurses, doctors, dietitians, pharmacists and social workers meet to discuss the care and progress of your baby. As a vital member of the health care team, parents are encouraged to attend.
Certified Lactation Consultants may visit while your baby is in the hospital. After you take your baby home, you can also get breastfeeding advice by calling 905-681-4840 ext.1.
In the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), up to two individuals can be at the bedside at one time. Parents/legal guardians/Essential Care Partners (ECPs) may be present 24/7.
Siblings visiting the NICU must show proof of vaccination. Non-sibling visitors are not encouraged.
Non-parent/guardian visitors are welcome but must be accompanied by one parent or legal guardian.
When it is time to take baby home, the health care team will develop a discharge plan. The plan will include information about feeding, after care, medication, follow up appointments and important phone numbers.
Follow Up
A public health nurse may contact you by phone within a day or two of discharge. The nurse will provide information about the Healthy Babies, Healthy Children Program.
If you have questions about baby’s care after discharge, contact your family physician or pediatrician.
Newborn Resources
Newborn Feeding Resources
For access to mother and newborn resources in French and 17 other languages, please click here to visit the Best Start website.
Adapted with permission of Ottawa Public Health. For educational and non-commercial purposes only.
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