Re: preemie-l From Cynthia Faullin: NICU (fwd)
Michelle Way (msway@csrlink.net)
Tue, 04 Jun 1996 07:06:39 -0400
At 02:32 PM 5/30/96 +1000, you wrote:
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>---------- Forwarded message ----------
>Date: Wed, 29 May 1996 16:34:16 -0500
>From: Cynthia Faullin <cfaullin@uiuc.edu>
>To: preemie-l@vicnet.net.au
>Subject: NICU
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> I have no complaints at all about our NICU experience but I can remember
calling the
>unit with questions after Trevor came home and they were reluctant to give
>me answers. They always suggested that I call the pediatrician. In Peds.
I had to remind nurses to wash
>their hands before they touched Trevor.
Hello, Everyone, Again!
I can't believe this either. Geisinger's NICU/NSCU (the step-down unit) has
always encouraged parents to call with any questions. And I have taken them
up on it, too. The nursing staff was wonderfully gentle and enthusiastic
about helping in any way, encouraged phone calls at any time to check on
Baby. When Sam was in the hospital, I always called first thing in the
morning and last thing before bed at night, in addition to visiting
everyday. I was encoraged to read her charts and participate in her care as
much as possible. I felt very much "welcome" there. And when Tanner was
admitted, some of the nurses AND the neonatologist remembered us and
welcomed us. It was nice. Perhaps this is an area where we "experienced
preemie parents" can make suggestions to the staff. GMC has a follow-up
questionnaire which seeks suggestions; does your hosp have this?
I also am amazed at this "not washing the hands" deal. I do that NOW, every
time I change a diaper or take Sammie to go potty! And I am not dealing
with ill children!!! Good for you for reminding the nurses to do this!
Let us not ever forget that we do have voices and that we can make a
difference....
Love and hugs to all,
Michelle Way
(mommy to Sammie 27 wks 10/16/93 and Tanner 36 wks 3/8/95)
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