Special hospital care for sick babies

Sometimes things do not go as planned in pregnancy, labour or birth. Some babies need special care and observation or intensive care in our:

• Neonatal Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (NPICU)
• Special Care Nursery (SCN).

If we think that your baby may need to go to NPICU or SCN after birth, we will arrange for you to have a tour of the unit in your area.

Caring for your baby in the NPICU and SCN

• We encourage you to participate in the care of your baby including cuddling, bathing, and feeding.
• A physiotherapist, occupational therapist or speech pathologist may help your baby’s development.
• If your baby is in NPICU or SCN for a long time, you will be discharged before your baby.
• Our midwives and social workers may be able to assist with accommodation and ongoing help.
• Visiting hours are unrestricted for parents.
• The only children allowed to visit are siblings.

NPICU at Royal Hobart Hospital

The NPICU has highly trained medical and nursing staff, and the latest technology to care for sick and premature babies. It is the Tasmanian referral centre for:

• premature babies under 30 weeks (single pregnancies)
• premature under 32 weeks for twin or higher multiple pregnancies
• sick babies.

Referrals can be made from:

• Launceston General Hospital
• North West Regional Hospital (by negotiation under 32- 34 weeks)