Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
Nursing Manager: Colleen G. Davis, MSN, RNC
The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of the Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children is a Level III referral center primarily for infants less than 30 days of age requiring surgery or services from a large array of sub-specialists that are located here. The NICU also provides service to ventilator-dependent infants requiring airway evaluations and has a comprehensive trach/vent teaching program for parents. The NICU is a collaborative effort of the Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children and the Christiana Care Health System (CCHS). The unit is also supported by the Thomas Jefferson University (TJU).
In January 2008, we relocated to a beautiful new unit consisting of 14 single patient rooms which support our philosophy of family centered care. Four of the rooms will be able to flex up to allow us 4 additional beds, should the need occur. The private rooms have been designed to allow for the comfort of the family as well as for their baby. Such amenities include a sofa sleeper, recliner, telephone, data port, and a flat screen TV. Our intent is to provide a comfortable, private, and home-like environment. The NICU is supported by neonatal nurses (60% of which are certified), neonatal nurse practitioners, hospitalists, fellows, neonatologists, pediatric surgeons and pediatric sub-specialists. Staffing is well supported with ratios of 1:2-3. Ancillary services are readily available from respiratory therapy, pharmacy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, radiology, laboratory services, social work, speech and hearing, EEG, EKG, and ECHO cardiography.
Respect:
As a member of the nursing staff of the NICU, I will be respectful and value my peers, my patients and their families. I will:
- Maintain a positive, professional attitude at all times
- Arrive promptly and accept my assignment
- Maintain a safe and clean work environment
- Be open to the ideas and viewpoints of others
- Provide feedback (peer review) in a timely and respectful manner
Excel:
As a member of the nursing staff of the NICU, I will adhere to the standards of care established by the National Association of Neonatal Nurses, in accord with those of the Department of Nursing at Nemours. I will promote excellence by:
- Being accountable for my practice
- Serving as a resource for my peers and patient families
- Seeking national certification, when eligible
Serve:
As a member of the nursing staff of the NICU, I will “do whatever it takes to deliver a uniquely satisfying experience.” I will:
- Create a supportive environment for my peers, patients and their families-“manage-up”
- Support the philosophy of family centered care through my daily practice
- Present a positive attitude in all interactions with my team members and patient families
Honor:
As a member of the nursing staff of the NICU, I will base my practice on the legacy of A.I. duPont and the mission of Nemours. I will:
- Be a faithful steward of Nemours resources
- Maintain the highest standard of quality patient care
- Promote strong interdisciplinary teamwork for positive patient outcomes
Learn:
As a member of the nursing staff of the NICU, I will create a supportive environment encouraging each other to learn and practice competently. I will:
- Utilize evidence based practice to promote positive patient outcomes
- Seek knowledge in collaboration with other disciplines through research
- Embrace new approaches to care of the neonate
