Information for Parents
Information for Parents
Parents are key members of the NICU team.
Our goal is to involve you as fully as possible in the care of your baby. We hope the following information will help.
Caring for Your Baby in the NICU
Feeding Your Baby
We begin to give your baby milk as soon as his or her condition allows. Many babies, especially those weighing less than 1500 grams (3 pounds, 5 ounces), are often fed through a feeding tube at first. When your baby is ready, he or she will begin feeding by mouth. For mothers providing breast milk and who desire to nurse, we will help support your baby's initial feedings at the breast. Nurses and lactation consultants will help support you when feeding your baby, as often babies in the NICU have unique needs when learning to feed.
Breastfeeding and Lactation Support
- Breastfeeding and Lactation Support for Mothers
Milkline: (585) 276-6455 (MILK) - Lactation support is available in the hospital, 7 days a week. Bedside nurses can page the lactation consultant for you in the NICU. If you are on one of the delivery units you can contact Lactation directly through the Get Well Network. You will be taught to use the Get Well Network upon admission.
- The UR Breastfeeding Clinic has support groups and baby cafes throughout the Rochester area. The lactation consultant can help guide you.
Calling the NICU
You can call the NICU 24 hours a day.
Wegmans GCH Tower: (585) 275-7150
Strong (3-3400): (585) 275-2267
- The nursing shift change is from 6:45–7:45 a.m. and 6:45–7:45 p.m. If there is any serious change in your baby’s condition, we will call you as soon as possible.
- We ask that parents make all phone calls concerning their baby and then relay the information to family members. Keep in mind that we do not give information to family members or friends.
Holding Your Baby
Being able to hold your baby is an important part of bonding. Skin-to-skin care, sometimes called kangaroo care, is a special way parents can hold and bond with their baby. It also has benefits for your baby such as helping to keep them warm and reducing stress. It may not be safe to move your baby out of bed; please check with your nurse about other ways you can care for and comfort your baby.
Learn more about skin-to-skin or kangaroo care.
Clothing and Toys for Your Baby
You may bring outfits, hats, and special blankets. While your baby is in the isolette, he or she will just be wearing a diaper, so we may better observe him or her. Infant stimulation is necessary for your baby’s growth and development. Toys or gifts you can bring for your baby include:
- Books
- Small rattles – cloth and plastic
- Pictures of family members and those colored by brothers and sisters
Remember, the isolette is small. Also, remember to label items with your baby’s name.
NICU Handwashing Instructions
A three-minute hand scrub is required for everyone entering the NICU. Here’s how to do it.
NICU Family Support
Parents of previous NICU babies offer support for our current NICU families.
Read more about the NICU support program
Visiting the NICU
Parking Expense
We encourage you to visit your baby frequently. There are several services to help you lower the cost of parking. Read more parking information. If the parking cost is a financial hardship, check with the NICU social worker for transportation assistance.
Take the online tour for siblings!
Getting More Information
Our staff is available to answer your questions and we want you to understand everything we are doing for your baby. We know sometimes we tell you so much that it's hard to remember everything. Ask your baby’s nurse for more information.