Conditions We Treat
Depend on expert, life-saving and gentle care in the CentraCare NICU for the following newborn conditions and complications:
- Born before 37 weeks
- Birth disabilities or abnormalities
- Birth weight under 5 pounds, 8 ounces
- Breathing problems like rapid breathing, grunting or apnea
- Infections such as herpes, group B strep or chlamydia
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Need for blood transfusion, extra oxygen, monitoring, IV therapy, medications or resuscitation at birth
- Seizures
St. Cloud NICU
The NICU at CentraCare – St. Cloud Hospital has advanced equipment and technology to help your baby get well. The modern, private and semi-private rooms feature:
- Family zones with a pull-out couch, closet, refrigerator and internet access
- Webcam for family and friends to view the baby from anywhere
- Overhead music to support the growth and development of the baby
You are welcome on the unit 24 hours a day so that you will have more chances for skin-to-skin contact, kangaroo care and breastfeeding. It also helps you gain confidence in the care of your baby.
NICU Care Team
Many people work together as a team to care for your baby. You might meet these people:
- Neonatologists are pediatricians with extra training in caring for sick and premature babies. The neonatologist oversees nurse practitioners.
- Neonatal nurse practitioners are registered nurses with extra training in caring for newborn babies. They can do procedures and help direct your child's care.
- NICU registered nurses (RNs) are specialty-trained nurses within the NICU.
- Respiratory therapists have special training in respiratory support, including managing breathing machines and oxygen.
- Physical, occupational and speech therapists make sure a baby is developing well. They also help with positioning, soothing methods and teaching babies to eat by mouth.
- Dietitians watch babies' intake of calories, protein, vitamins and minerals to ensure good nutrition and growth.
- Lactation consultants have training and certification to help women and babies successfully breastfeed, pump and maintain their milk supply.
- Pharmacists assist the NICU care team in choosing the best medicines, checking dosing levels and being aware of possible side effects to monitor.
- Case managers help to coordinate your child’s care from start to finish.
- Social workers help families cope when a child is ill. They give emotional support, supply discharge information and help arrange transportation, home health care and financial assistance.
- Hospital chaplains may be priests, ministers, lay pastors or religious advisors. They give spiritual support and counseling to help families deal with the stress of having a baby in the NICU.
- Interpreters can support your care experience if English is your second language or if you use sign language.
Family-Centered Support
Within our highly specialized, yet intimate setting, you will always have access to your neonatologist or your care team. You are a core member of this team, and your participation improves your baby’s care. You can be involved in your baby's NICU care as much as you want. You may choose to:
- Attend daily rounds in the NICU
- Participate in creating your baby's care plan
- Change diapers and take temperatures
- Participate in parent support activities
- Provide feedback to help improve NICU care
A Family Support Program will provide you with resources during your baby’s hospital stay and transition to home. The program offers activities, education, such as infant CPR, and special keepsakes to celebrate milestones. A private respite room for parents contains education and opportunities for you to meet others in a similar situation.
Family Webcam Monitoring
Monitor your baby remotely through a discreet webcam by your baby's bedside. The system allows virtual visits anytime you can't be at the NICU. You can access the live stream on any laptop or mobile device and share the secure link with family members.
MyChart