Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

If your newborn needs extra care before going home, they’ll receive loving attention at St. Bernards Medical Center, which has the only NICU in northeast Arkansas. Our level IIIA NICU is the region’s safest place for critically ill full-term babies and premature infants born as early as 26 weeks. Find out how we can make a big difference in your little one’s life.

Why is My Baby in the NICU?

Babies may receive intensive care because they:

• Arrived early (less than 35 weeks gestation)
• Weigh less than 4 pounds
• Need antibiotic management
• Need respiratory support
• Show symptoms of an infection
• Have feeding issues
• Have low blood sugar
• Need continuous monitoring for any other reason

Transfers From Other Hospitals

We accept outside transfers to help keep your baby close to home. The healthcare provider may request a transfer to our NICU by calling 870.207.7050.

NICU Services

Depending on your baby’s condition, they may receive:

• Nutrition through a vein (IV)
• Medications from a pharmacy with specialized pediatric pharmacists that’s available 24/7
• Ultrasound imaging
• Echocardiograms
• Genetic testing
• Ophthalmology, ENT, and GI services for preterm retinal development
• Different ventilatory modalities that help tiny lungs breathe until they grow stronger
• Cardiac evaluation and support, including assessment of failed congenital heart disease screenings

See the NICU

Watch our video tour of the Birthcare Center to take a peek inside the neonatal intensive care unit.

How Can I Be Involved?

• Kangaroo care (skin-to-skin) promotes bonding, temperature and hormone regulation, and breastmilk production.
• We encourage parents to be involved during provider rounding to stay up-to-date on the plan of care.
• Parents may participate in feeding their baby with nurses, lactation, or speech therapy guidance.

Who Can Visit the NICU?

• Two visitors, including parents, are welcome any time.
• All visitors must be accompanied by a parent.
• We only allow visitors 18 and older.
• To protect all babies, don’t visit if you’re sick.
• The NICU is closed to visitors during change of shift (6:30-7:30 am/pm).

When Will We Go Home?

Babies can stay in the NICU for a few hours or a few months. For your little one to safely go home, they must:

• No longer need oxygen
• Take all feedings by mouth
• Maintain stable temperature in a crib