Special Needs
High Risk Nursery
The High Risk Nursery, or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), at The Medical Center features state-of-the-art equipment, expanded space around each incubator and special lighting control capabilities. All of these features provide infants and families with the best possible care in a comfortable, supportive environment.
The nursery is staffed by caring professionals dedicated to helping critically ill infants gain the strength to begin their lives outside the hospital.
High Risk Nursery Team
A team of healthcare professionals cares for the babies in the High Risk Nursery. Some of the people who may be involved in your baby’s care are:
Physicians- A neonatologist is a pediatrician who has special training in the care of newborns. This physician supervises the medical care team in the unit. In addition, residents (physicians in training) may manage the primary minute-to-minute care.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner - This is a registered nurse who has completed a special training program in the care of sick and well newborns. He or she provides care for your baby as the residents do under the supervision of the neonatologist.
Nurses- Your baby will be in the care of nurses 24 hours a day. When you call or visit, the nurse caring for your baby can help you with information about your baby.
Respiratory Therapist- Respiratory Therapists have special knowledge in breathing problems and the equipment used to help babies breathe.
Social Worker- A social worker is available to work with families on the problems that may arise during the baby’s hospitalization. These problems may not be related to the baby’s medical care but involve emotional support, arranging for a place to stay while visiting, or accessing additional health or public services.
Maternal and Neonatal Transport Services
The Medical Center serves as one of only six regional perinatal centers in Georgia. Infants from 21 counties in southwest Georgia and Lee and Russell counties in Alabama are transported to the High Risk Nursery by a neonatal transport team using advanced technology and the latest in medical transport equipment.
Family Support
New family support areas include a private lactation suite as well as a "nesting room." The nesting room allows parents to spend the night in a home-like environment with their infants before taking their babies home after what is typically a lengthy stay at the High Risk or Special Care Nursery. Staff members monitor the interaction between parents and infants and serve as a support system during this transition of care.
Contact Us
High Risk Nursery
706-571-1014