Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
A Place for Special Healing
The Long Beach Community Medical Center's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is a 20-bed, Level III intensive care unit that has been designated by the state of California specifically to take care of critical medical needs of babies like yours. Our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is equipped and staffed with specially-trained physicians, nurses, and health professionals who are experts in the treatment of ill and premature newborns.
Having a baby who needs intensive care is often unexpected and quite frightening. Because we understand your fears and concerns, we encourage you to talk to our staff. After you have become acquainted with our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and our staff, you will be assured that your baby is receiving superior medical care in a supportive and warm environment.
Here is some information to acquaint you with our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and what you may expect during your baby's stay. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.
Our Specialized Care Unit
Recognizing that a premature birth or serious illness requiring intensive care for a newborn is a tremendous emotional strain, Long Beach Community Medical Center's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit was designed to foster parental involvement in the care and treatment of your baby.
The unit itself is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, including advanced soundproofing technology, a regulated-lighting system to minimize the glare, special isolettes and warming tables, and other equipment designed to monitor the temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate of your baby.
A private family waiting room, a private breastfeeding room that also serves as an overnight room, and open visiting hours provide you with the opportunity to be as close to your baby as possible.
Specialized Newborn Healthcare Team
A team of neonatologists, doctors who are specially trained in the care of newborn babies, direct the care and treatment of your baby. Our neonatologists provide 24-hour on-site coverage to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and are supported by a full complement of other physician specialists. Other staff members include clinical nurse specialists, respiratory therapists, physical therapists, developmental specialists, social workers, and other health professionals.
The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit also benefits from the support of the Long Beach Community Medical Center's full-service capabilities, which include immediate access to services, such as radiology, laboratory, coronary care, respiratory care, and pharmacy.
Additionally, your baby's care is coordinated with your pediatrician. A weekly status report is sent by our doctors to your pediatrician, thereby insuring continuity of care once your baby is discharged.
Pediatric Specialists
In addition to our staff of full-time neonatologists, Long Beach Community Medical Center's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit provides a full range of pediatric specialists including:
- Anesthesiology
- Dermatology
- Endocardiology
- Infectious Disease
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Pulmonary
- Cardiology
- Ear, Nose & Throat
- Gastroenterology
- Nephrology
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic
- Plastic Surgery
- Thoracic & Cardiac Surgery
- Genetics and Developmental Specialist
Special Services
Social Services - It is quite natural for you to worry when your baby is ill. Our social workers are trained to help you during this difficult time.
Infant Cuddler Program - We are fortunate to have a Cuddler Program in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. These very special volunteers have unique training in infant stimulation and provide comfort to your baby.
Infant Training Classes - Training in infant resuscitation is recommended prior to taking your baby home. Our Nursing Education Department has prepared special classes in infant cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for parents and the primary caretaker. Please ask your nurse for the schedule of classes.
Regional Referral Center
As a regional referral service, Long Beach Community Medical Center's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit receives babies from many hospitals. Our transport team is available around the clock to travel to referring hospitals to provide on-site evaluations and arrange for the safe transport of your baby to our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The transport team is comprised of a neonatologist, nurse, respiratory therapists, and trained ambulance personnel.
