The George Batchelor/Gloria Vasta Lewis Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) includes a 12-bed, Level II, and a 14-bed Level III unit. Having a Level III rating means that Baptist Children's Hospital can care for very sick newborns who need immediate surgery and those who weigh less than 1,000 grams (2.19 pounds).
The 14-bed Level III includes a brand-new unit with seven private rooms, incorporating the very latest trend in providing private, family-centered care for the tiniest, sickest newborns in an environment that supports healing and comfort. This new unit is one of the first in the state with the private-room design.
The NICU is equipped with a high-frequency ventilator for babies with severe respiratory distress, advanced monitoring equipment and isolette that protect the babies in a humidified environment. The unit cares for babies born not only at Baptist Health hospitals, but also for newborns brought from other facilities throughout South Florida, the Keys and the Caribbean.
Additionally, lactation consultants, physical therapists, occupational therapists and social services all work together with the babies and parents promoting a family-centered care for these most special babies.
For more information call 786-596-3673 or send an e-mail to baptistchildrens@baptisthealth.net.