Since its establishment, Erdem Hospital has continuously expanded its healthcare staff and technical infrastructure to offer world-class neonatal intensive care services. The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Erdem Hospital provides specialized care for high-risk newborns, ensuring that each infant receives the best possible medical attention.
Scope of Neonatal Intensive Care
At Erdem Hospital, neonatal intensive care services are offered to premature and high-risk infants born after the 25th week of pregnancy. The NICU is equipped with cutting-edge medical technologies, supported by a multidisciplinary team of expert physicians, neonatologists, and certified nurses who provide first, second, and third-level neonatal healthcare services.
Key Medical Services Provided
Our NICU offers a comprehensive range of intensive care treatments, including but not limited to:
- Respiratory Support: Ventilator-assisted breathing support for premature infants with underdeveloped lungs.
- Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) Support: Intravenous feeding to provide essential nutrients.
- Blood Exchange Transfusion: Treatment for severe jaundice, anemia, or metabolic disorders.
- Phototherapy: Management of neonatal jaundice using specialized light therapy.
- Percutaneous Catheter Applications: Secure intravenous access for medication and nutrition.
- Thoracic Tube Insertion: Emergency intervention for pneumothorax and respiratory distress.
- Bedside Ultrasonography (USG) & Echocardiography (ECO): Real-time monitoring of organ development and heart function.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) Monitoring: Bedside brain activity assessment for seizure detection.
- Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) Examinations: Early screening for vision-threatening conditions in premature infants.
Certification & Patient Safety
Erdem Hospital holds the Baby-Friendly Hospital designation, reflecting its commitment to newborn health. All NICU nurses and physicians possess Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification, ensuring the highest standard of emergency neonatal care.
Post-Discharge Care & Risky Baby Follow-Up
Our hospital extends neonatal care beyond NICU discharge, offering outpatient follow-ups for at-risk infants. These follow-ups help monitor developmental progress and detect any potential health concerns early.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Neonatal Intensive Care
What is the purpose of neonatal intensive care?
The NICU is designed to provide specialized care for premature, low birth weight, and medically fragile newborns. The goal is to stabilize their condition, support organ development, and ensure a smooth transition to independent life.
How long do babies typically stay in the NICU?
The duration varies depending on the baby’s condition. Premature infants may stay until they reach their expected due date, while others with medical complications may require extended hospitalization.
Can parents visit their babies in the NICU?
Yes, Erdem Hospital encourages parental involvement in the NICU. We provide kangaroo care (skin-to-skin contact) and educate parents on how to assist in their baby’s care.
What are the most common conditions treated in the NICU?
- Prematurity complications (respiratory distress syndrome, jaundice, apnea)
- Congenital heart defects
- Neonatal infections
- Hypoglycemia
- Neurological disorders
What role do parents play in NICU care?
Parents are integral to the baby’s recovery. Our NICU team provides guidance on feeding, bonding, and post-discharge care, empowering parents to actively participate in their child’s health journey.
How is infection prevented in the NICU?
NICUs follow strict infection control protocols, including hand hygiene, sterilized equipment, and visitor screening to minimize the risk of infections.
What happens if my baby needs surgery?
Erdem Hospital’s NICU is equipped for surgical interventions. Neonatal surgeons collaborate with the NICU team to ensure optimal surgical and post-operative care.
What is retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and why is it important?
ROP is an eye disorder affecting premature infants. Regular screenings at Erdem Hospital help detect and treat the condition early, reducing the risk of blindness.
How is feeding managed in the NICU?
Feeding methods include:
- Parenteral Nutrition: IV feeding for critical cases.
- Enteral Feeding: Breast milk or formula via a tube.
- Oral Feeding: Once the baby develops the ability to suck and swallow.
What support is available for families after NICU discharge?
Our post-NICU follow-up clinic monitors growth, neurological development, and nutrition. Parents receive counseling on infant care, vaccinations, and long-term health strategies.
Conclusion
At Erdem Hospital, neonatal intensive care is a multidisciplinary, evidence-based, and compassionate service aimed at ensuring every newborn receives the best possible start in life. Our experienced healthcare professionals, state-of-the-art technology, and commitment to parental involvement create a safe, nurturing, and advanced care environment for our tiniest patients.