A NICU Tour: What Life is Like for Babies

Content medically reviewed by Stefanie Gefroh Ellison, MD and Patricia Segler, MD

Most new parents don't plan for their babies to end up in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). If your baby is born prematurely, has certain health conditions, or develops an illness that needs special medical care, the NICU is a lifesaving place to be. Essentia Health has Level III NICUs at St. Mary's Medical Center in Duluth and Essentia Health-Fargo. Take a virtual tour of St. Mary’s Medical Center’s NICU or the Birthing Center at Essentia Health-Fargo to learn how we provide comprehensive care for our tiniest patients.

Why Your Baby Might Need a NICU

There are many reasons your baby might need NICU care. Some of the most common reasons include –

• Respiratory support
• Premature birth
• Low birth weight
• Blood sugar management
• Infection
• Birth defects, including heart defects

Some families with high-risk pregnancies will be told by a neonatologist to expect NICU care for their baby.

The Level III NICU Difference

Both Essentia NICUs are Level III, which means we have the skills and latest technology on site to help keep even the tiniest newborns as healthy as possible. We have significant clinical experience and meet national guidelines for expert care, including –

• Comprehensive critical care for all infants, no matter how premature
• A board-certified neonatologist staffed 24/7
• Specialized NICU nursing staff
• Respiratory support for babies who need it
• A comprehensive medical team available to care for your baby

Private Rooms for Parents & Baby

Having a child in the NICU can be incredibly stressful. That’s why instead of large special care nurseries, our NICUs have private rooms for babies and families. We also have rooms specifically designed for twins. Each room has an isolette—a clear, enclosed crib that keeps the baby warm and isolated from germs. For the family, there is a convertible couch that turns into a bed as well as a chair recliner, which is perfect for nursing or skin-to-skin contact, both allowing you to be with your baby as often as possible. You also have your own refrigerator in which to store pumped milk. Windows offer natural sunlight, but specially made blinds ensure your baby’s developing skin and eyes remain protected.

Other amenities for families in our NICU include –

• Cameras that monitor your baby 24/7, so you can always see your little one even when you’re not at the hospital
• Family lounge
• Postpartum care for mothers, which may include massages
• Secure storage space for personal belongings

Additionally, our labor and delivery center is located nearby, ensuring seamless care and access.

Our NICU Team Is Here for Your Family

Our NICU neonatology and nursing team provides advanced care for newborns, but they’re only part of the comprehensive medical team we have for your baby. Working together as a team to care for your baby, the NICU staff also includes –

• Chaplains
• Dietitians
• Lactation consultants
• Rehabilitation therapists
• Respiratory therapists
• Social workers