The Neonatal Unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital cares for babies with a number of medical conditions. Some babies on the unit are born prematurely, others are born with breathing difficulties or feeding problems and some have abnormalities at birth. Whatever the problem, parents, friends and family can be assured that the Neonatal staff have met it before, have the experience to deal with it and will fully explain what is happening.
The Neonatal Unit admits approximately 400 babies each year. It has 16 cots, which are split into three areas of Intensive Care, High Dependency and Special Care. Each area is equipped and heated differently in accordance with the medical needs of its babies. The Unit cares only for babies with medical problems. Those who require surgery are transferred to a regional unit, which is usually St Mary’s Hospital in Manchester, or for babies with heart conditions, Alder Hey Hospital in Liverpool.
Where is the Neonatal Unit?
The Neonatal Unit is part of the Trust’s directorate of Child Health and is situated on the first floor of the Women’s Unit, away from the hospital main corridor and near to the children’s wards. Maternity is also situated in the Women’s Unit, which means that Neonatal Unit staff can work closely with those who work on both the Delivery Suite and Post-Natal ward to offer the most comprehensive and professional care possible for the babies.
Visiting the Neonatal Unit
Premature and sick babies are prone to infection and also need their rest, so it is advised that any visitors other than parents are kept to a minimum. However, the unit does have open visiting for parents who can visit as often as they wish.
Visitors to the unit can only gain access if accompanied by a known parent or guardian of the baby. The doors are kept locked at all times with CCTV monitors at all entrances and exits. Children other than siblings are not allowed on the unit to protect babies against infection.
Facilities for Parents
The admission of a baby to the Neonatal Unit can place a lot of stress upon its parents and we have tried to make the facilities as comfortable as possible for parents and guardians. There is a waiting room next to the unit with a seating area, TV and some toys as well as a new kitchen for parents to make their own drinks and snacks. There is a milk expression room and six transitional care rooms so parents can stay when appropriate.
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Women and Children’s Unit Blackpool Victoria Hospital Whinney Heys Road Blackpool Lancashire FY3 8NR |
Getting Help
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You may meet this team if your baby is born too sick, too small or too soon. |
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| Availability
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The unit is open to admissions | Contact Us
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01253 953636
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| Extra Help
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We have Play Specialists who can help keep you calm and happy if you are worried about any treatments. The clinic is accessible with an accessible toilet, sensory room and a portable hoist if needed. We have a quiet space available if you need privacy or time out. If you need help with British Sign Language or translation the team can arrange help through a translator or note taker. |
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