Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center has a 28-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), located on the fourth floor of the Patient Care Tower. It is a designated tertiary care facility that provides comprehensive care to critically ill newborn infants.. The NICU provides intensive medical, surgical and nursing care, state of the art electronic monitoring, life support systems and a complete range of diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. The NICU treats major newborn disorders such as: prematurity, respiratory distress syndrome, congenital malformations, metabolic disorders and birth asphyxia. The unit is staffed by a full complement of experienced nurses, neonatal nurse practitioners and physician assistants and board certified neonatologists, as well as respiratory therapists, occupational therapists, social workers and case managers. On-site consultation and expertise is provided by pediatric subspecialists.
The focus of our NICU is to meet the needs of the entire family in a supportive environment. The NICU combines intensive care with developmentally based care, creating a warm environment for babies with the most advanced technology available. We also promote holistic interventions such as Kangaroo Care, co-bedding of multiples and infant massage. Mothers seen in our High Risk Obstetric Service are encouraged to call 860-714-4404 for a visit to the NICU, and a consultation with neonatologist can be arranged by calling Hema DeSilva, M.D., at 860-714-4404.
Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center has established "Better Beginnings Fund for Neonatal Care" to help support the critical programs in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Specifically, Better Beginnings helps fund:
- Vital medical equipment for the NICU,
- Visitation rooms for parents and families
- Education and professional development for NICU staff
- Environmental needs for the NICU
Corporate and individual donations to the "Better Beginnings Fund for Neonatal Care" are appreciated. For more information, contact the Development Office, Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, 114 Woodland Street, Hartford, CT 06105, or 860-714-4900.