Staying Informed
Give yourself time to develop a new routine in the NICU. Asking about the following items can help you understand your baby’s medical status and become part of the NICU Team.
Medical Team Rounds
Medical rounds occur daily between 9 a.m. and noon, and parents are encouraged to participate. This is a great opportunity to meet the members of the medical team, ask questions, and learn the plan of care for your baby.
Your infant will be assigned to either the Green or Blue team. Each team is headed by an attending neonatologist. In addition to that neonatologist, the Green team includes neonatal nurse practitioners and the Blue team is made up of pediatric residents.
Other members of the medical team who participate in rounds are pharmacists, dietitians, social workers, therapists, and other specialists and consultants as needed.
Family Meetings
A family meeting, also known as a care conference, is a meeting between a baby’s parents and the medical team, separate from rounds. This is an opportunity for parents and members of the medical team to discuss concerns, answer questions, and review the plan of care. Parents can request a family meeting at any time during their baby’s hospitalization, but they are particularly advised if there is a change in the baby’s status or if specialists are involved in their care. Talk to your social worker if you would like a family meeting.
Primary Nursing
Primary nursing is a care agreement between a nurse and a baby’s parents, where that nurse cares for their primary patient when they work. It is a way to create consistent nursing care for your baby. The advantage of primary nursing is that the nurse gets to know you and your baby very well. The nurse can be an advocate for your infant and can help you navigate the NICU, and then help prepare you for home.
Each baby may have one day and one night primary, if desired. You may ask a nurse directly if they can pick up your baby as a primary, or if you need help obtaining a primary nurse, please speak with your baby’s social worker or a NICU support coordinator. Please ask if you have questions about this program.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your child's physician. The content provided on this page is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your child's physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition.
Reviewed on: 6/2024