
Countless factors can interfere with a healthy pregnancy and delivery. That is why Altru Health System has a team dedicated to supporting each unique childbirth experience. With extensive training and access to sophisticated equipment and technology, our neonatologists and other specialists are prepared to help mom and baby through high-risk situations.
Located in Altru’s Family Birthing Center, the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is:
Altru also offers neonatal patient transportation services through Altru Care Flight, an air ambulance transport program serving our region. This air ambulance features sophisticated equipment and a critical care trained staff to escort our littlest patients where they need to go.
Take a virtual tour of our Family Birthing Center.
The NICU is a Level III nursery designed to support newborns in need of specialized care, including:
Moms who experience complications during pregnancy are more likely to have a baby that will require time in the NICU. Specifically, factors that may cause a high-risk pregnancy include:
A range of experts in the Altru NICU offer mom and baby round-the-clock support.
Our neonatologist provides coverage 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
If needed during the infant’s NICU stay, consultations are made with
neurologists, ophthalmologists, audiologists, cardiologists, nephrologists,
physiatrists, geneticists, surgeons and any other specialist who may be
necessary. Consultations with neonatologists from tertiary care centers
are also available.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP), an advanced practice nurse who provides critical care to neonates, assists
with medical procedures and treatments, and helps coordinate care for
our tiniest patients.
Registered nurses (RNs), including some RNC-NIC (RNs certified in caring for neonatal patients) and/or transport nurses, are staffed in the NICU 24 hours per day, seven days a week. All nurses are certified in neonatal resuscitation and are trained to perform specialized procedures.
Respiratory therapists (RTs) also play a vital role in the day-to-day care of infants in the NICU. RTs
manage ventilator settings and the oxygenation of the infants through
the use of blood gas measurements. They are also trained in neonatal resuscitation
and attend high-risk deliveries.
Occupational Therapists (OTs) assist families in providing developmentally supportive care for their newborn.
Lactation consultants work with mothers to encourage breastfeeding by:
NICU Cuddlers are trained adult volunteers who provide comfort and console newborns through holding, soothing and stimulating tones and words, and singing lullabies.
Altru’s Family Birthing Center and its NICU are located on the fourth floor of Altru Hospital. For more information, please call 701.780.5480 or 800.732.4277.
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