NEONATAL UNIT
The Neonatal Unit cares for babies born prematurely and those born at term, requiring specialist care.
The nursery has 9 cots – this includes 1 intensive care cots, 2 high dependency and 6 special care cots. 1 room for isolation purposes.
Babies born at 27 weeks gestation or above are cared for here on the island. Care provided ranges from infants requiring full intensive care to those requiring help with feeding and temperature control. Infants born at less than 27 weeks or requiring specialist care, such as surgery, are transferred to the UK. These infants are either transferred in-utero prior to delivery or following stabilisation, by an air ambulance team. The unit also provides a Neonatal Outreach Community team, providing continuity of care by staff once the baby is discharged home.
There is also a unit based air ambulance team who transfer and retrieve infants to and from the Island.
Parents are encouraged to be involved in caring for their baby as soon as they feel able. Gradually building the confidence they need when they go home.
Prior to discharge, parents are encouraged to ‘room-in’. This is where parents do all the care for their baby and staff are available should they need any assistance or advice.
The unit has an intercom system in order to gain access.
Visiting times
Parents are allowed to visit anytime they wish. The nursery operates a ‘quiet time’. This is between 13:00hrs and 15:00hrs every day. This is a time when babies can sleep without any interruptions.
Where is the Neonatal Unit?
The Nursery is located on the 2nd floor, east Wing, of the hospital and is accessed through the Jane Crookall Maternity Ward.
Who can visit my baby?
Visitors are limited to Grandparents only. If they are not resident on the Island, parents may nominate 4 friends to support them during this time. Visiting is restricted in order to protect the infants from infection and to reduce the noise in the nursery.
If my baby is born prematurely, can I still breastfeed?
Yes. Research has shown that breast milk is best for all infants’ especially preterm babies. All staff have been trained in assisting new mum’s to initiate and maintain lactation and to help establish breastfeeding prior to discharge.
When will I be able to care for my baby?
Staff will encourage parents to help with their babies care as soon as they feel able. This includes changing nappies and feeding your baby.
When can I cuddle my baby?
As soon as your baby’s condition is stable, staff will ask you if you would like a ‘cuddle’. Can we take pictures? Yes. The staff will also take two pictures shortly after your baby is admitted to the nursery. These will be printed so you can have them with you.
Direct Telephone Number: +44 (0) 1624 650035
Unit Manager: +44 (0) 1624 650285
